The Winter Brides- Short series Part 1 (By Apopinion)

“Do you mind if I sit here?” asked a very male voice.

Riky looked up from the book she was reading at the man who stood across from her. And raised a delicately arched eyebrow at him in question.

“Well, the café seems to be packed,” he said with a warm smile in reply.

But Riky didn’t look away from his face. She knew the café was packed as was the lounge and the whole airport. The fact that she had even gotten a seat on the overly booked flight to Chicago was a blessing and all because there was no direct flight available, so she had taken the one with a stopover at New York. She was going to attend a wedding. Who the hell got married during Christmas holidays? She could have passed the invitation, there wasn’t any reason for her to go, only she couldn’t. If life were that simple. Hers… wasn’t. Coming to the man who stood before her, she let her gaze slide past his charming face to his clothes and then back to his face. Her keen eyes missing nothing. A square forehead partially covered with thick black hair falling forward in a disheveled manner that must have been combed neatly a little while ago, warm hazelnut brown eyes under thick eyebrows, an almost straight nose, thin well shaped lips and a small scar under his chin made up for his face. She had noticed the cleft in his left cheek when he had smiled. It was deeper than the one on the right. His black turtleneck sweater covered the width of his shoulder down the expanse of his chest and narrow waist. A checkered scarf hung around his neck. He wasn’t overly broad or he would have looked bulky. He was a tall guy about six feet or so. His long legs were covered in dark blue jeans and black boots finished his outfit. He even carried a grey wool jacket on his arm. She could see the big gleaming dial of his watch on his left hand. The hand that held his cup of coffee. She had heard the faint ring of American accent when he had spoken. He must have been living in the States for some time now. In all he was a decent looking chap with a charming smile. Only, Riky was done with men and their charm, for life. She lifted her hand and gestured for him to the vacant chair. Her perusal must not have taken more than a couple of seconds. And she didn’t particularly care who sat at the same table as her till they didn’t bother her.

“Thanks,” he said with polite gratitude and placed his jacket on the back of the chair before sitting down.

Ignoring his gratitude Riky went back to doing what she had been before he had disturbed her. Reading her book. Though her mind was not on the words swimming before her eyes but on the numerous reasons why she shouldn’t go. No wonder she had read the same paragraph at least four times without really grasping the meaning. A couple of minutes must have passed before the man spoke again.

“It is a nice book,” he said and Riky glanced at him with cold rudeness but he seemed oblivious to it. “The end has a great twist,” he told her with a smile and sipped his coffee.

Riky placed her book on the table carefully. Then plastered a polite indifferent smile on her lips.

“Is this going to be one of those conversations where you would dare to tell me the twist in the end,” she asked keeping her tone pleasant though everything else suggested the opposite.

“And spoil the fun for you,” he said as he raised one of his eyebrows, then when she didn’t answer he laughed lightly, “no ma’am,” he said, “I am not one of those sadistic spoilsports. The end is really thrilling, you must be able to enjoy it all by yourself,” he said with warmth and humor then raised his coffee to her in salute and took another sip.

Riky could take an offense. She had been contemplating it. But his laughter had put a stop to that thought. There was warmth in it. Besides his humor induced voice had definitely calmed her down, a bit. Any other day she might have enjoyed talking to a charming stranger with a sense of humor. That day was not today. And that day wasn’t coming in her life anytime soon if she could help it. Why was he talking to her? She didn’t want to talk to him. She didn’t want to talk to anyone if that was possible. Not even her family. She was done with all of them. Well, maybe not all of them. A couple here and there but yeah, mostly she didn’t want to have anything to do with the remaining people… or men. There was absolutely no sincerity, no trustworthiness and definitely no loyalty left in them.

“Good,” she said coldly, “then if you don’t mind I would do exactly that,” she said pointedly and picked up the book again.

“You are going to Chicago,” he said.

Riky closed the book shut and kept it on the table with a thud as she glared at him. Was he asking her or telling her? Who was he anyway? Besides how did he know?

“Excuse me,” she said, her voice dropping to freezing levels.

“Hey, don’t freak out on me,” the man said lifting his hands in mock surrender, “those are your tickets right there,” pointing a finger towards her passport and boarding passes near her bag on the table and Riky crossed her arms over her chest, “it says so right on them,” he told her.

“You seem to be a very observant man,” Riky said with a half-smile. That was one of her most dangerous smiles. Anybody who knew her would know she would soon lash out. But he didn’t know her, a voice reminded her. Or did he?

“So I am,” he said with a smile, then extended his hand towards her, “Tilak Gandhi,” he said.

Riky didn’t immediately take his hand in hers. Instead she eyed him suspiciously. Indian, of course. She had deduced as much. Not that she was interested. She was short on nerves anyway and he was pushing her past the threshold.

“Is this how you go about picking up girls because frankly I see no other reason why I would even look at you,” she said haughtily refusing to take his hand.

If she had thought he would get up and leave at the insult she had hurled at him she had thought wrong. He burst out laughing. Whatever else she had expected he would do, this was not it, and she frowned slightly.

“I am sorry, I didn’t know I cracked a joke,” she said a bit acidly.

“I know,” Tilak said as he smiled broadly, “normally, girls do give me their names,” he said then paused for a second, “at least. Maybe my observations startled you and I apologize. Sometimes I do talk without thinking things through,” he admitted, “and since you have no idea who I am, your response is acceptable,” he told her good naturedly.

“Why? Are you somebody I should know?” she asked rudely.

She wasn’t a rude person by nature. She could be, extremely rude and even mean if the situation warranted it, but right now, the only excuse she could give was she wasn’t feeling herself. Hell, she hadn’t been feeling herself for the past couple of months now or was it years. And her inability to accept a few harsh truths was turning her into someone she wasn’t beginning to recognize at all. Not that she was going to tell any of that to him. He was a stranger for sure. And despite what he was suggesting or what she was understanding he wasn’t a well-known figure either. At least not to her.

“Ouch,” Tilak said making a wincing sound, “you do like to reduce people to mere particles,” he said then grinned, “but you are good. You can pack quite a punch with just words. I am impressed,” he said with a smile which made the cleft in his left cheek more pronounced, “runs in the family?” he asked humorously.

Riky gave him a sweet smile but it never reached her eyes.

“As a matter of fact it does,” she said proudly.

Tilak didn’t respond to that. Instead he picked his cup and quickly drained down the contents. Then rose from his chair.

“Thank you,” he said with a warm smile, “it has been a while since I had spoken to someone interesting,” he told her and Riky heard the sincerity. He found her interesting? After all she had said and behaved? Was he crazy? But she kept quiet. “You are a beautiful girl,” he continued as he picked up his jacket, “and you would be gorgeous if you smiled more often,” he said and Riky narrowed her gaze at him. His voice had no bite to it and his eyes were honest. It was as if he was telling her a fact and not mocking her. She felt a strange restlessness flutter inside her. As if she wanted to do that too. Smile. Often. But she brushed the feeling aside. He inclined his head at her and turned. Then as if a thought struck him, and he turned back. “By the way,” he said and Riky paused midway from lifting her book again giving him an exasperated look, “I am going to Chicago too, who knows we are booked on the same flight, it would be fun to see you again,” he said then flashing his wide smile at her he turned around and walked towards the exit.

“God forbid,” was all Riky said as she stared at the retreating back of the man who had sat with her at the same table.

Unknown to her, Tilak had heard what she had said. She hadn’t whispered it. And all he had done was grin.

                                                                        Xxxxxxxxx

He had seen her sitting in the corner at a table for two. Actually all he had seen was a book covering a face and an empty seat.

God, how Tilak hated to travel at this time of the year. He had nothing against Christmas, quite the opposite actually, but travel was one thing he avoided, if he could, during these days. Flights were always overfull. Hotels double the price. And lots of people. Travelling. From one place to another. Either to reach families for the holidays or with families for a vacation. It was just way too crazy and he wouldn’t even have been going had his mother not been so insistent. She had thrown the emotional card, the tactical one and even the social card, when nothing had worked she had just plain ordered him to get the next flight to Chicago. All his family was coming. There was a wedding. And it had been a long time since the last one. He had cursed his cousin left right and center for choosing the date to be a day before Christmas. Besides just before he had booked his tickets he had found out something vital and so it became imperative he went.

He had reached the airport early. Something he normally never did. But with the holidays and huge crowds one just never knew. Traffic jams or long lines for check in. Even the flight schedules were erratic. Once he had his boarding pass he had realized he still had some time to kill so he had gone towards the lounge only it was overfull, for lack of a better word. The airport itself was jam packed. So he had decided to have a cup of coffee instead. Not that he had found a place to sit even there. Till he had spotted the corner table. There was a woman who sat there if her open hair and well-manicured finger nails were any indication with an open book in front of her face and a coffee cup on the table, only he hadn’t expected the girl he found. As she had lowered her book at his request he had been surprised. And he had hoped he had masked it well. Of course, he recognized her. How could he not? And up this close she was gorgeous. Her long black hair curled slightly around the ends as it was left open. Not one hair was out of place. Her thin oval face had big beautiful brown eyes which he likened to that of a doe, and the delicate arch of her eyebrows reminded him of a raven’s wing. High cheekbones with full lush lips and a straight nose completed the picture. Smart application of make up only enhanced her beauty. And then she had raised one of those brows he had admired, at him, in question. On any other girl it might have looked haughty but on her, it was well suited. The haughtiness suited her. The hint of arrogance in that one move impressed him. He had of course, pointed at the limited amount of seating but she didn’t even glance around as if he was stating the obvious and she was well aware of it. Instead she had pinned him with her gaze. At her open perusal it had taken his all to stay calm. Her steady gaze had slowly looked him over and he had been very uncomfortable, though he had hoped it wouldn’t show. He had a distinct feeling that this was exactly how a female felt under a man’s thorough appraisal. But she didn’t speak just gestured for him to take the vacant seat with her hand. And he had immediately noticed the delicate sway. As he sat down he noticed the golden beige sweater she wore and how it enhanced the color of her skin. But soon she went back to her book. He found he wanted to hear her talk. Hear her voice. For a woman this beautiful, this poised what would be her voice like? He was curious. Even though he recognized her he had never actually spoken to her. Besides there was something off about her. She had yet to turn the page. She had been on the same one for the past couple of minutes. And so he had struck the conversation. He found out exactly what her voice was like. Delicate like tinkling bells. Though her tone and use of words told him she was upset, angry even and wary at the same time. He had kept his voice warm and humorous. He was after all a stranger to her, so her rudeness and distrust had a reason. But then she refused to accept his hand or give her name. He hadn’t expected that. But maybe he should have. It bothered him. So he gulped his coffee and stood up to leave. Though he couldn’t, without teasing her a bit. He was a lighthearted man. He liked to smile and laugh and make others do the same as well. Though there were times when he got serious too. And when he did, people knew how to receive him. But most often than not he didn’t bother. Life was too serious on its own without him making it more. As he had left he had heard her ‘God forbid’ and he couldn’t help but grin.

He hadn’t told her who he was apart from his name and maybe where he was headed to. He hadn’t he told her he knew her. There was always a time and a place and his surprise encounter with her was neither the right time nor the right place. However, he did find it interesting and now he was curious to know if they were on the same flight as well. Some things were never coincidental.

How interesting would she find their encounter was another matter altogether.

                                                               Xxxxxxxxxxxxx

If Riky didn’t do something soon, this flight would become downright suffocating, it was insufferable as it is. Since the airlines couldn’t upgrade her to first class owing to a full flight, she had to contend with a business class seat. But the man who sat next to her was more obnoxious than the one she had met at the café. What was his name again? Oh yeah, Tilak Gandhi. At least he had been warm, polite and funny. This man had been ogling at her since the second he had found he was going to sit next to her. And since the flight had taken off he had been belching. Loudly. She couldn’t stand it. And she had immediately asked for a seat change. Only who would want to sit next to him was a big question. So far the flight attendant hadn’t returned. Where the hell was she? Despite the fact that the business class offered comfortable seating and distance from the person sitting next to you, she was practically squished and this was when she was a thin person. The forty something man who sat next to her, wasn’t. Overweight by at least a hundred pounds, a big pot belly and beefy arms, the man sat on both his and half of her seat. It was cold inside the aircraft and the man was sweating in his Hawaiian print shirt and brown trousers. If he belched one more time she would scream. Riky raised her hand towards the switch to call on an attendant when she heard a voice speak to her.

“Miss.”

And Riky breathed a sigh of relief. The attendant she had spoken to earlier was here with a polite smile plastered to her face. But Riky also saw the worry in her eyes. Did she not find someone Riky could exchange her seat with?

“Yes,” Riky said in a calm cool voice. Though she was far from feeling it.

“As you had requested we have found someone who is agreeable on changing his seat with you,” the woman said politely, “however, the seat is in economy class,” she told her and Riky felt her heart sink.

Economy class? Hell, she rarely travelled even business class. But she knew it wasn’t the attendant’s fault. This time of the year, the flights were overbooked. She was lucky, she had even got a seat for as late as she had gotten her tickets done. What should she do now? She will just have to sit in the company of Mr. Belch mountain. She saw the knowing grin on the man’s face and she almost closed her eyes. She could take the offer. But what if there was another jerk sitting there? She opened her mouth to thank the attendant when Mr. Belch did something even more unthinkable. He made a strange sound and as Riky stared at him in disbelief her nostrils protested at the bad smell. There was no time to think. She could suffer anything but this man.

“I will take it,” Riky said. She couldn’t stand sitting here another second. She would have a massive headache by the time they landed that is if she didn’t throw up first or die of the smells emanating from Mr. Belch.

The attendant nodded her head and gave her a look that suggested she understood her desperation perfectly well. And Riky hated that look. She had never been one to stand pity. Angling her chin she rose from her seat and indicated for the man to move out so she could leave. The man made an elaborate effort. He had to practically vacate the chair in order to make space for her to get out.

“This way Miss,” the attendant said as she carried Riky’s small cabin bag with her.

Riky grabbed her purse and followed. She hoped she had made the right choice. Well, technically she hadn’t had a choice. She had paid an exorbitant amount of money to be on this flight and have a business class seat. To trade it for an economy…anyone who heard her would probably laugh. But who was to know. She won’t tell and there was not one soul on this flight who knew her. But that was not the cause for her worry. Lately she had been making a lot of wrong choices and bad decisions had been a companion to her longer than that. She pushed the morose thoughts aside for now. She needed to be stronger and prove it to certain people she wasn’t as easily broken.

The seats were so small. The whole section looked smaller to her for some reason. Maybe because it was packed. And she was aware of numerous pairs of eyes on her. Keeping her head a bit high and her gaze absolutely straight she followed the attendant all the way to the end. Not near the toilets, please, she prayed. She could have groaned but she didn’t. She agreed her current situation looked bad but she had been in a much worse one before. It was just a matter of an hour and forty minutes now. The attendant paused and turned to face her.

“This is your seat ma’am,” she informed her and quickly opened the door to the luggage carrier and adjusted her cabin bag inside.

Riky pursed her lips. She would have preferred having an aisle seat. A window seat was…never mind. Beggars couldn’t be choosers. There were two other seats occupied by men. She took in a deep breath. One was an Asian. While the other…wait…what. Not him. Not the man from the café. Why was he here? Why did he have to be on the same flight as her? Her eyes met his very humorous ones. And she stifled the need to groan. What was strange was that where she was irritated and surprised to see him there, he didn’t look either. In fact he seemed mighty pleased.

“Are you sure there is no other seat I could take?” she asked the attendant.

“I am sorry ma’am, we are completely booked and there is no available seat. Besides despite the attraction of travelling in a business class seat only one person agreed,” she said politely.

Riky looked at the woman she was talking to. It didn’t seem she had made much of an effort in trying to find someone to exchange seats with her. The man she was speaking about was probably the first one she must have asked. The attendant seemed to be ready to go do other things than sort out her seating arrangements again. She decided not to push her issue further. Tilak Gandhi, was a better bet than the man she had just been sitting with. With a deep breath she straightened to her full height and went to sit in her new seat. The two men quickly got up to make space for her.

As she sat down she hoped fervently that the person who had swapped seats with her wouldn’t come back asking for his original seat considering he would be spending the remaining time on this flight seated next to Mr. Belch.

Another hour and thirty two minutes to go.

 

                                                               xxxxxxxxxxxxxx

Tilak had known she was on the same flight. He had seen her earlier, when business class and first class passengers had been called out. She hadn’t seen him. And he had smiled at that. Anybody might think he was a stalker and the bad type. Only he wasn’t. He was travelling economy this time round. Not his fault considering it was last minute reservation. He was happy he had at least got a seat. Besides he was comfortable. He enjoyed luxury every now and then and he did like to live his life well, but he wasn’t a cribber. He had seen the worst and he was living the best. So everything in between was equally fine with him.

The attendant had walked down the aisle a few minutes earlier when the man next to him by the window seat had asked her if an upgrade was possible. And the attendant had seemed as if she had suddenly remembered something. She had told him about another passenger wanting to exchange her seat and maybe there was a possibility only she will have to confirm with her if she would trade it for an economy seat. The attendant had returned with a cabin bag a couple of minutes ahead of the lady in question and the man had left eagerly with a victorious smile. All Tilak had done was grin. He couldn’t figure out why the man had felt as if he had won a lottery ticket. It wasn’t a big deal. But then, maybe it had been for him. He would have shrugged only he had noticed her by then, coming down the aisle behind the attendant with her head held high and her shoulders a bit stiff. He hadn’t been able to help but wonder about the reason for her trade. She had a business class. Why would she trade that for an economy? People always wanted an upgrade not a downgrade.

He saw her narrow her eyes as she recognized him and he felt like grinning again. Her comment ‘God forbid’ made its rounds in his head. She was suddenly uncomfortable. And he couldn’t fault her. Maybe he had spooked her a bit at that café earlier on. He heard her ask the attendant for another seat but it was denied with extreme politeness. And she had straightened immediately. He and the other man rose to make way for her. He heard the man grumble at the inconvenience of constantly getting up and down. As they all settled back in their seats Tilak felt her fragrance quickly wrap itself around him. Sweet and spicy. It suited her. And she was a tall girl. About five nine he would guess and that was without those boots. He noticed how she sat so stiffly and stared out the window. He decided to let her be. Get used to her new surroundings…with him being a part of it.

He opened the magazine he had bought and went through the article that had interested him. After a few minutes he heard a sigh and felt her relax her muscles as she rested against the seat. He was surprised to realize how attuned he was to her. Maybe because she sat so close to him. But he knew that wasn’t the truth. And if he let the truth out the girl next to him would for sure freak out and he just might land up in an institution for being deranged. These days nobody believed in love at first sight. Mostly it was either lust or obsession. Neither was the case with him. The first time he had seen her, he had been a goner. It wasn’t his fault but even knowing that about himself, she had been off limits. Maybe she still was. What of her reason for going to Chicago? He could guess but was he correct? He would have gone on thinking when his thoughts were interrupted by the sound of a trolley. It came and stopped next to their row.

“What would you like to have Sir?” the attendant asked with a polite smile.

“I will have a ginger ale,” the other man said.

And the attendant quickly got busy taking out the can and pouring the contents in a cup. Once she was done and handed it to the man and turned her attention towards him.

“Coffee please, with cream and sugar,” Tilak said with a smile.

She gave him his coffee with sachets of sugar and looked at the silent passenger by the window.

“Ma’am,” she called out.

“A glass of Cabernet Sauvignon,” she responded without even turning her face. Her voice crisp and to the point.

While the man next to him almost choked on his ale Tilak had to fight the urge to chuckle. The attendant looked a bit out of her element but she quickly bent to retrieve the small bottle of the deep red liquid and poured it in a disposable wine glass.

“Thank you,” she said as she accepted her glass and handed a card to swipe for the order she had placed.

Yup, wine in a domestic carrier did come at a price. And she wasn’t averse to paying for the services. Not bad. He had been curious to know what she would have ordered or if she would have ordered. And now he knew. The woman had taste. He was finding it a bit difficult to not admire her. There was more to her than just beauty. Though it was her beauty that had captured his attention at first. But despite that he had realized there was more to her. Much more. Her eyes were like mirrors. And those eyes had captured his heart. She was a poised girl from whatever he could make of her. He didn’t know many personal details about her, but what he knew had interested him. And now that he had actually met her he was very interested. Would she show a similar interest in him? Now that was a question that could for sure put a damper on his spirits but he refused to give in. There was a reason why he had met her the way he had. What he needed to see was if this could turn out to be something more for them or if this would end without reaching a conclusion.

As the attendant moved on Tilak looked at her. She was resolutely looking out the window at the darkness that enveloped the aircraft they were travelling in. She seemed sad. A strange quietness gripped her. It was almost as if she was lost, into that darkness she was staring at so incessantly. The wine she had ordered still in her hand. Untouched.

“You don’t like what you ordered?” Tilak asked breaking into whatever sad thoughts held her. Somewhere this stillness didn’t suit her. Even if she got angry at him for disturbing her and decided to shoot a few more barbed replies his way, he would prefer it. At least her eyes would hold some kind of emotion, anything was welcome but the despondency he saw there.

Riky turned towards him. For a second she wasn’t sure if he was talking to her. But then he raised his eyebrow indicating towards the glass she held and she realized the question was posed to her. Why was he so insistent on talking to her? First at the café, now here, could she have no peace? Why did he have to be on the same flight as her? More so, why did she have to keep seeing him? Then a thought struck her. Had he known beforehand that she was on this flight? But how was that possible? She hadn’t spoken to him about it. Oh, this was too much for her.

“Are you looking for an exchange,” she said coolly and raised an eyebrow in challenge. No matter what she was feeling she would be damned if she let anyone know how vulnerable she felt.

Tilak chuckled. With any other girl he might have felt rebuffed. Well, with any other girl he might not have bothered but she was not any ‘other girl’. For some weird reason he found her prickly side quite amusing. A complete contrast to her very delicate appearance. People might not even expect it of her especially with the kind of poise she displayed. But maybe he could understand where it was stemming from.

“Not really, I am very happy with what I ordered ma’am,” he told her humorously, “what happened to your business class seat?” he asked curiously.

Now how the hell…never mind, Ricky told herself. But to him she said…

“It suddenly grew thorns,” with a bout of acid, “though had I known I will have to suffer your company, I would have stayed put,” she added.

“I am completely harmless I assure you,” Tilak said with a smile.

Then decided to leave her alone. He didn’t want to trouble her more than she already was. Besides he knew what might be eating at her. Maybe she didn’t behave this way, hell, for some reason he was sure she never behaved this way at all. And despite her best efforts and practiced tongue lashing he hadn’t missed the emotions swirling in those beautiful eyes of hers. Hadn’t he likened them to mirrors since the start? They gave him a glimpse of how she felt. She was having a rough time.

Ricky saw the charming smile flash again before he casually inclined his head and shifted comfortably in his seat. Evidently he had decided to leave her alone. She turned her head back towards the window looking at her reflection staring back at her. He didn’t deserve her rudeness nor her anger. It wasn’t his fault she was feeling miserable. It wasn’t his fault she was struggling with hurt and anger and rejection. The people responsible weren’t bothered. Wrapped up in a happy bubble. How come her life had become such a painful mess? Why her? All she had ever wanted was…love. Love for who she was and not what she stood for. Was that too much to ask? She was responsible for everything wrong that had happened to her. Trusting the wrong people. Making bad decisions. Hasty judgments. She closed her eyes as she took in a deep breath, her hold tightening on the stem of her wine glass. Her destiny had always failed her.

Would destiny fail Riky one more time? Or will Riky finally find what she had been looking for?

                                                               Xxxxxxxxxxxxx

This couldn’t be happening. Not to her. Riky stood outside the airport in the freezing temperatures, with knee high snow piled up on the sides of the road and not a single taxi in sight. Why hadn’t she booked a rental car? Because she was used to only driving right wheel. Damn. And why hadn’t she booked a pickup from the hotel? The thought hadn’t crossed her mind when she was arranging her stay and travel. Double damn. What was she going to do now? It was well past midnight. And she was so tired. Not to mention hungry and cold. Of course she was wearing a sweater, and an overcoat with a woolen scarf and gloves but they were proving to be a futile barrier against the chill surrounding her. She could feel the shivers going up and down her spine. There were passengers coming and going. Chicago was one of the busiest airports in the world. But most of them either had someone to drop them or pick them. She looked around and her gaze got hooked onto the trees decorated with Christmas lights and wreaths and bright red bows. Even the lamp posts were decorated. What a beautiful winter night. It was the time when one could snuggle up under warm blankets with a hot cup of cocoa and read a book, or watch a nice movie, or sit next to a crackling fire in the fireplace and share stories with loved ones.

What was she doing here? Miles away from home. She could have spent the holidays with her family, they had wanted her to, but she had refused. Or she could have spent them with her friends back in London. At least the ones who weren’t vacationing elsewhere. She had planned a vacation too. To Cayman island. The beautiful beaches away from all the winter cold and snow. But that had been before…before Rohan had broken her trust. And her heart along with it. She felt a numb pain wrap itself around her heart. And she drew in a long cold breath of air all the way to her lungs. She was brought out of her musings as she saw a car slowly draw up and come to a stop before her. Was it a taxi? It didn’t seem so. It was an SUV. And as the window rolled down she found a familiar smiling face appear.

“You,” she said a bit loudly, “again,” she said bitingly.

“No luck with the cab,” he said summing up her situation for her, “need a lift,” he offered.

“Thanks, but I would rather wait for a cab,” she replied a bit tartly. Why did she keep bumping into him? More so, why did she keep snubbing at him like that? It wasn’t right. She could have politely declined.

“It is cold and there is no guarantee when you would get a taxi or if you would get a taxi,” he told her with a serious face now, “I really am harmless,” he told her again.

Did he read her thoughts correctly? Maybe. Riky heard the seriousness in his voice along with genuine care. How could he care for her when he didn’t even know her? Maybe he was the caring, helpful types, came the reply. There were no such types, Riky reminded herself coldly. Exceptions were there and she knew a couple of such men but beyond that she had yet to see more evidence of those particular traits in the species. Coming to the man before her, she didn’t trust him. She didn’t trust any man anymore, especially if he was not a family member. Though grudgingly she had to admit that he was right. She couldn’t indefinitely wait for a cab to appear and it was pretty cold not to mention late. She hated to admit it, but it was the truth. Could she take the risk? Could she trust him to take her safely to her hotel? Since when had she stopped taking risks? And the question made her frown slightly. She sighed.

“Are you sure it won’t be a bother,” she said reluctantly. Tiredly. It was just a lift. Maybe she was thinking too much. And even if he did try to act funny she would bash him up with the thick book she had been reading before. It was there in the bag. Not much of a defense but something was better than nothing.

Tilak didn’t reply. Instead he got out of the car and came to her side. Then opened the door for her so she could sit in the passenger seat. Once she sat down and closed the door he picked up her luggage and placed it on the back seat. Then walked back to the driver’s side and got in.

Riky felt the heat inside the car envelope her immediately. The cold began to seep out of her muscles and she felt good instantaneously. She inhaled deeply and registered the musky scent of the man who occupied the other space in the car. It was nice. Flighty but not overpowering. Riky felt grateful, even though she didn’t want to admit it. It was a rare feeling for her and she often didn’t know what to do with it. Usually, people said thank you to reflect gratitude or even say the actual words but, she always found it to be the most awkward of situations to deal with. It did not mean she trusted him anymore than she had trusted him a few seconds ago. But the man had offered to drop her to her destination. Wait, till he actually drops you, said a voice in her head. And Riky sullenly complied with that, for the moment. As the car moved off the curb slowly easing into the lane that took one towards the exit point Riky found herself sitting a bit stiffly in her seat. Maybe she should at least mention a ‘thank you’. And nicely.

“Thank you,” she murmured.

“What for?” Tilak asked as he looked at her briefly before bringing his focus back onto the wet slippery road, “I haven’t dropped you at your hotel yet,” he said.

For a second Riky thought he was a bit off when he said that but when she peered at him she realized his lips were curled into what resembled a little smile. She hadn’t noticed it before but he had little crinkles around his eyes as if he laughed a lot. So he wasn’t mad at her. But he should be. She had given him enough reasons to be. She bit her lip. She wasn’t an insensitive monster, so what if the whole world was plotting to turn her into one. Should she apologize for how she had been behaving? Maybe.

“Guess, I owe you an apology too,” she said keeping her tone polite. She wasn’t used to apologizing either. It practically drove her up the palm tree if she had to utter the word ‘sorry’ to someone.

“Wow, thanks and an apology, one after the other, not bad,” he said as he whistled low under his breath, “on a serious note, there is no need for either one. I am a stranger to you, you not trusting me is but natural,” he told her warmly, “and we all have bad days, don’t worry about it,” he said, “as for me giving you a lift, well, just helping a fellow Indian, nothing more,” he said good naturedly.

“I could be from another country too,” Riky pointed out as she crossed her arms over her chest.

“Yeah,” Tilak replied with a grin, “you could be. Only the emblem on your passport says otherwise,” he said and looked at the side mirror before taking the freeway, “so where are we going?” he asked her.

“Ritz,” Riky replied a bit peeved. Was he really this observant? Well, the emblem on the passport was hard to miss especially if he had also seen the destination on the boarding passes which had been inside the passport. What was the matter with her?

“Carlton?” Tilak enquired.

“Is there any other?” Riky asked with a raised eyebrow.

And he chuckled.

Was he always in such good mood? Did it not bother him that she was being rude? Had it been her she would have dumped the passenger with baggage in the middle of the road. But it wasn’t her. It was him.

“Not that I know of,” he replied. Then he pressed a button to switch on his GPS service and enter the name of the hotel. He was about to press the option ‘yes’ once the address popped on the screen when he heard her speak.

“Stop,” Riky said a bit loudly and touched his hand briefly before snatching it away.

“What’s wrong?” Tilak asked with a slight frown.

“It is the wrong address,” she said uncomfortably, “I had tried but they were all booked for the holidays. I have a reservation in Fairmont hotel,” she said then sighed and looked away.

Tilak didn’t even blink. She just dropped half a star in luxury hotel rating that was all. Ritz Carlton was the top hotel. Fairmont just a notch lower. Though pricewise they were very similar. And as far as the location went. Both hotels were in the same district.

“Okay,” he said. He was curious to know why she had given him a wrong name. But he decided to not give in to his curiosity. He quickly punched in the new address and let the soothing mechanical voice of his GPS guide him. He frequented Chicago both on official visits and personal ones but he wasn’t very good with directions. One reason why he always rented a car with the navigation system installed. Come to think of it, he was booked in Palomer. Just a couple of blocks away from Fairmont. What would she think of that if he told her?

“You won’t ask why I gave you the wrong hotel name,” Riky asked quietly.

“Do you want to tell?” Tilak asked just as quietly. He hadn’t liked her tone. It sounded weighted. She shook her head and he just smiled.

“I apologize,” she said in a strangulated voice and turned her gaze away to watch the passing vehicles, “I just don’t know what I say and do anymore,” she said warily.

That made Tilak to turn his head towards her though he kept an eye on the road ahead too. She looked tired. And not just from the journey she had made from London to Chicago. He watched her settle back into silence. Tilak tore his eyes away from her and concentrated on where they were going. He frowned. It had been a while since he had done that. Frowning. This strange attitude of hers mattered to him for inexplicable reasons. It wasn’t helping that he maybe, understood why she was feeling this way. Because he just didn’t know what he could do to fix it?

Or did he?

                                                                  Xxxxxxxxxxxx

Was she mad? But of course, she was. She was here…in Chicago, wasn’t she? Riky sat in the coffee shop of her hotel looking out the big window at the fallen snow from last night and the hotel staff clearing out the pathways for guests to walk on.

Tilak had dropped her at the right hotel, without trying to take advantage of her. And she had felt indebted and guilty. She was human after all. And finally she had thanked him. In the correct way.

“Thank you…Tilak,” she had said as he had taken out her luggage.

And he had looked a bit strangely towards her.

“You remember my name,” he had said and she had heard his astonishment.

She had looked a bit curiously at him then. That was his name right? He had told her at the airport. Tilak Gandhi, he had said. So what if she had been rude, she had heard every word that had left his mouth and for sure she wasn’t forgetful. Though half her problems would be solved if that were the case, she had thought. She could then forget the many heartaches that life had dealt her.

“That is your name,” she had stated politely.

“Yes,” Tilak had answered and then he had grinned, “I am just a bit surprised you remembered,” he had told her.

Riky had just nodded. She had felt like smiling. His grin was infectious. And the thought had sobered her almost immediately. She couldn’t let her guard down. Men were untrustworthy. But the fact that she had to remind herself of it hadn’t sat well with her. And so she had pushed the thought away for later inspection. For just that moment she had blamed it on tiredness. The journey. The people. The emotions she was battling, it had all tired her out.

“Thanks for dropping me,” she had said again.

Tilak had smiled at that. And she had noticed much to her chagrin how boyishly charming that smile made him look. He wasn’t handsome not in the conventional way but he was a good looking man for sure. And she had immediately berated herself mentally.

“The pleasure was all mine,” he had said and then put out his hand for a shake, “goodnight and sleep well,” he had said.

Riky had eyed his hand and recalled how he had offered it before at the café where she had met him the first time. She hadn’t taken it then but this time she did. She had felt his big hand envelope her dainty one. She had felt his warmth chase away the chills from her cold gloveless hand. But most of all she had felt this undercurrent of awareness. His grip was strong but reassuring, firm but not painful. And she had liked it. It had bothered her in just another second and she had let go of it.

“Are you new to Chicago?” he had asked as he had put his hands back in his pockets.

“I have visited the city before, but it was a while ago,” she had replied. She hadn’t wanted to let him know she was practically a stranger to the city. But she hadn’t been able to stop herself. Even though he had dropped her safely she still didn’t trust him.

“Good,” he had said as he had scratched his brow with his thumb and then took out his wallet and handed her a card, “I know you are a big girl,” he had said with a smile as if expecting her to argue, “and you can take care of yourself, but having a name and a number in a new city can come in handy,” he had said extinguishing all protests from her side, “I am booked at a different hotel but not really far,” he had added, “if you need any help don’t hesitate to call,” he had told her as she had read the little piece of stiff paper in her hand, “that’s mine, by the way,” he had said humorously.

“You do this for every fellow Indian or am I a special case,” she had asked a bit rudely and a raised eyebrow.

And he had laughed. Loudly. She had felt her lips twitch despite her reluctance.

“No, I don’t do this for every fellow Indian I meet,” he had said in a charming voice, “usually I am wary of them,” he told her as if it was a big secret, “but you seem to be special,” he had added softly. And Riky could not have been wrong about the warmth she heard in his voice.

She had looked at him curiously then. Why did he care what happened to her? Why was she a special case? He didn’t know her from Adam. And vice versa. Besides she hadn’t been friendly to him at all, in fact quite the opposite. But she hadn’t been in the mood to think through things as thoroughly as she might have liked. She was tired. So she had just passed him a wan smile and put his card in the pocket of her coat.

“Thanks,” was all she had said, “and good night Tilak,” she had said.

“Good night….” Tilak had said and paused.

Riky had been confused for all about one second before she had realized he didn’t know her name. Because she hadn’t told him yet.

“Riky…” she had replied cautiously. She could have given him her full name. But she hadn’t. Instead she had given him the shortened version of it. What would he make of her name? Would he ask for more or would he take what she was giving him?

“…Riky,” he had said with a smile and then nodding at her walked to the other side of his car and getting in, left. 

As the car had left, Riky remembered sighing heavily. She had suddenly felt inexplicably cold. Because with the car the warmth of Tilak’s company had left as well and despite her reluctance she felt alone. Miserably alone. Though she had shrugged and tried to dissipate the feeling. The bellboy had arrived and passing her a polite smile carried her luggage inside. She had felt warmth spread through her cold limbs when she had entered the hotel. As she had stood at the reception getting her keys and other formalities done all she had wanted to do was get to sleep, so much so she had failed to notice the Christmas decorations or the massive tree with all the Christmas trimmings and ornaments, even the huge gingerbread house the executive chef and his team had built near the concierge. She had blindly followed the bellboy all the way up to her room. It was a bit bigger than a room. A suite actually, on the tenth floor of the hotel. Not much of a view from the windows though. Not that she was interested. She had just unpacked one of her cases which held her toiletries and night wear. Taken a hot shower, worn her night clothes and got under the blankets. She had been in deep sleep even before she had shut her eyes. No dreams, good or bad had dared to disturb her. Though she had woken up early. About six thirty. And because she had taken a shower before she had gone off to sleep she had washed her face and decided to go have a coffee in the coffee shop downstairs. She had worn a warm red slacks with a cashmere cream sweater, red scarf and a matching red cap. Her ash colored boots completed the outfit. Donning a light make up, she had left her hair open. Carrying her purse and coat she had exited the room.

And here she sat in the coffee room. More snow had fallen last night but it wasn’t all that bad. The little flakes had dropped from the skies above till about an hour ago. Tiny little white cotton florets. They say each one is different from the other. No two snowflakes are the same. So why was she categorizing all males into one bracket? She knew it wasn’t right. Only she couldn’t help it. Every single man she had thought of being the one, had hurt her. Seen her only as a means to an end. She was only twenty five and the amount of broken relationships she had, was something even a seventy year old couldn’t boast of. Was something wrong with her? Or was it that she drew just the wrong type to her like nails to a magnet? She shook her head slightly to clear it. And now she was here, in Chicago. She had been questioning her decision of coming since the second the idea had taken form in her head. And yet she had come. Despite several misgivings and logical reasoning, that this was a really bad idea. But she had to prove a point. She was stronger than they thought. Even if she was a miserable crumbling self on the inside, she was a much stronger person on the outside. Or was it her ego? She couldn’t be sure. She had a big one. No doubt. Ran in the family. Not her fault. Worse, she hadn’t told anyone about her trip here. All she had said was she had plans and they hadn’t pushed her for further information. She sighed. They were a different lot. Her family. Even though certain people were on the mend the rest were still the same. Riky’s go to person for any kind of advice or problem was her older brother. But that was it. She didn’t trust anyone else. How about Tilak? She kept her cup down. Where had that come from? Despite everything since the time she had woken up she had thought of him. Off and on. Not overly much but his image and smile had stayed with her. Replaying in her head every few minutes. Why? She didn’t even know him. He was a stranger. It was probably more to do with how he had helped her. Dropping her at the hotel safely. That sense of humor and charming smile. The politeness with which he had spoken to her. Prodding her but not pushing her. Respecting her space. She frowned.

She shouldn’t be thinking about him. It wasn’t as if she would see him again. Granted, the man had given her his card but it meant nothing. She wasn’t looking for a relationship or even friendship for that matter. She had been hurt enough to last her a lifetime. She was here to attend a wedding and she would, even if it killed her. She had to prove it to herself and a few others that she wasn’t a weakling. Nor was she someone they could step upon and move on as if nothing happened. If she was miserable she would at least make them squirm in their chairs while they ate the feast. It won’t be as easy. And with those thoughts her resolve strengthened. She raised a hand and the server appeared immediately. She gave him her room number and told him to attach the bill to the final payment when she checked out. What was she going to do today? She was two days early. Damn, she should have just arrived on the D date. Tomorrow was a bachelorette party and by God she would attend it. But what was she to do for the whole of today and half of tomorrow. She pondered. She wasn’t interested in shopping. And she had already been to Chicago before and done all the local sightseeing. What else could she do? Maybe she should ask at the concierge. They would know if something interesting was happening around. Maybe she could attend a local show or catch a movie. It spelled loneliness. But she pushed the chill of that emotion away. As she stood up and gathered her purse, gloves and coat to make her way towards the concierge, she saw him.

She almost dropped her purse as she stared with her mouth slightly open. What was he doing here? She quickly glanced at her watch. It was eight fifteen. Then looked back up. His grin widened as he spotted her and waved a hand towards her. She straightened as she drew a firm line across her lips. She hoped he had a good enough reason for being at her hotel or else she just might give him a dressing down he wouldn’t forget anytime soon.

Only she didn’t know that Tilak Gandhi wasn’t easily fazed.

                                                                 Xxxxxxxxxxxxx

Just how charming could a man get? Riky wondered as she sat in Tilak’s rented SUV. The man had got her to agree to have breakfast with him at a local diner. Damn. There for one second she had been contemplating telling the man to stop bothering her and then the next second she had felt his warm smile and quick humor melt all her protests.

She wasn’t tired now. She had been last evening with a lot of things weighing her down but right now she was fresh. And for some reason she realized she wasn’t feeling a lot of animosity towards him. And that he looked different today. His hair was neatly combed as compared to yesterday when he had had a more disheveled look. His black jeans topped with a cream sweater and black wool jacket gave him a relaxed air. He seemed…ummm…handsome somehow. Was that even possible? Maybe. He had seemed good looking yesterday but this morning he did fit the bill of being handsome. Not that she told him that. The second he had wished her good morning she had felt her lips curve into a smile. The warmth he brought with him, which for sure was the kind of person he was, had quickly dissolved her coldness. She was still not sure he could be trusted. Nor was she sure exactly why she had felt his presence chase away the loneliness she had felt seconds before she had spotted him but a certain part of her was grateful. She wouldn’t admit it. Neither to him nor to herself. Because then she would have to wonder about reasons. And she wasn’t going to do any more thinking. She had of course asked why he was there to which he had quickly told her, ‘to have breakfast, with her’, in no uncertain terms. It was only when she had opened her mouth to protest he had quickly taken out something from the pocket of his black jacket. It had been her scarf, from yesterday.

“You had forgotten it in my car,” he had said with a smile that was warm enough to melt a few flakes of snow, “I found it on the floor where you sat last night, when I was checking if I hadn’t left anything important inside before I gave the keys to the valet,” he said and gave a little shrug.

“It wasn’t that important,” Riky had said even as she had taken her scarf from him. She hadn’t even realized she didn’t have it with her. Blame it on tiredness. She should thank him. It was sweet of him to come back to return it.

“I didn’t know,” Tilak had replied with a twinkle in his eyes, “plus it gave me a reason to come see you again,” he told her.

“Tilak…” Riky had started to give him one of her famous answers to that sentence when he had started laughing.

“You know it doesn’t take much to get you all riled up,” he had said with mirth, “though you look better with a smile,” he had said.

Riky hadn’t been able to help but smile at that. His tone had changed from being mischievous to sincere in about one second. Oh, so he was charming. It always took time for Riky to get warmed up towards people. Call it habit or call it cautiousness. She took time before she would even say a polite hello to anyone. But it seemed her frigidity, as people often called it, was melting away rather fast with him. What was it about him that made her want to smile? With him. Not good. She had told herself. Maybe it was guilt, for behaving the way she had last evening and all when he had only helped her. Yup, that was it.

“See, you look gorgeous,” he had told her when he had seen her smile.

“Thank you,” she had said shaking her head at him, “and that is for returning my scarf to me,” she had added in case he thought anything else.

“Okay, so how are you going to pay me since you are feeling so grateful,” he had said with humor.

For a second Riky had felt her heart skip a beat. And not out of excitement or any other sentiment but she had been reminded of something. Someone, rather. Someone who had broken her heart to pieces a few years back and then danced over it. Her brother had pulled her out of that mess before she had drowned in despair. She hadn’t forgotten it. She couldn’t. Life had moved on. And she had too. But the pain of that mess still remained. Then she had seen the humor in his eyes. The wide smile on his face. It was meant to be a tease. And she had relaxed.

“What kind of payment are you looking for?” she had asked challenging him.

“Breakfast,” he had said quickly and before she could have protested he had gone on, “I am really hungry, and before I turn into a grouchy old bear for lack of food, will you do me the favor and have breakfast with me,” he had said flashing that dimpled smile at her, “I hate eating breakfasts alone,” he had added.

“Right,” Riky had said raising her eyebrows indicating she knew he was lying, “what would you have done had I not been here,” she had asked. She couldn’t resist it.

“Well, I would have suffered through one,” he had said with a groan, “alone,” he had said.

And Riky had smiled even as she had shaken her head.

“Alright,” she had agreed although she had dragged the word so he knew she wasn’t eager, “what do you want to eat,” she had asked as she had started to settle down back in her chair.

“What? Here?” he had said in disbelief.

“You don’t want to eat here,” Riky had asked in confusion.

“Are you kidding me,” he had said even as he had taken her coat from her hands and started to help her put it on, “you are in Chicago lady, you need to get to a diner to eat some scrumptious breakfast,” he had said and then linked her arm through his even as she had struggled to keep up with his words and actions all at once, “and lucky for you, I do know a really good one, just round the corner,” he had said and winked at her as he had started to walk and she had to walk with him in order to keep up and not make a spectacle of herself.

“We are going out for breakfast, in the snow,” she had said a bit loudly.

“Come on, a little snow never hurt anyone,” he had said with a smile, “beside the storm doesn’t hit till tomorrow night,” he had said.

“There is a storm tomorrow,” Riky had asked.

“Yes, not a big one, but a lot of snow and wind,” he had confirmed, “wow, a gingerbread house, cool, did you visit it yet,” he had said and as she had shaken her head he had led her to it.

It was beautiful. The executive chef and his team had done a great job. Everything was made of edible stuff. Right from the gingerbread bricks in the walls to the whipped cream frost trimmings on the windows. The smell of bread and cinnamon had filled her nostrils and she had inhaled deeply. The aroma was soothing. She hadn’t realized how big the decorative house was. You could walk in and out of it. There were chocolate ornaments, a cookie train and marshmallow hangings. It was festive and it had definitely made her hungry. Once they were out of there he had gushed at the tall giant Christmas tree with lighting and ornaments. There were little kids running around it singing jingle bells. Tilak had laughed and she had found his laughter infectious. Her smile had broadened. Her worries and hurts and pains seemed forgotten for the time being. He had then steered her towards the parking outside. It was freezing. Well, it was winter right. She had immediately tucked one gloved hand inside her coat and the other…well, the other was still snugly wrapped around his arm where he had placed it earlier. How come she hadn’t removed it yet? It had felt awkward at first but then it had felt natural. As if she was used to keeping it in the crook of his arm. As if her hand belonged there. She had wanted to remove it then and there but there hadn’t been a need, the valet had brought his car around and he had dislodged her hand all by himself. He had opened the door and she had sat inside.

As he drove out of the hotel, she wondered, a few minutes ago she had been thinking over how to spend her day and the feeling of loneliness that had crept up with the thought, and now she was on her way to having breakfast with a man she barely knew. She glanced at him as he took a turn onto the road mindful of the traffic coming both ways. She couldn’t explain it, not yet anyway, but she felt something flicker inside her. A spark. What it meant she didn’t know. The real question as did she want to know? Especially after everything that had happened in the past few years of her life? Maybe destiny was guiding her footsteps this time round. But what if she wasn’t?

And that thought made Riky bite her lip and look away.

                                                               Xxxxxxxxxxxxx

Tilak was a hearty eater. Riky could see that. It was amazing. The amount of food he had gulped down just for breakfast. When she had laughed and pointed out, all he had said was ‘Hey, it is the holidays’. She herself had eaten a bit too much.

“I am stuffed,” she said as she relaxed in her chair. The sun was out and the warmth helped ward off the chills in her body. Though they didn’t sit in the patio section of the diner, but they did sit in the window, overlooking the river.

“What with just one omelet and two toasts,” Tilak teased.

“You forget the fresh fruit,” Riky pointed out, “and the orange juice, and the coffee and that my omelet had mushrooms, spinach and bacon in it,” she said reciting exactly what her breakfast had contained.

“Come on,” Tilak said with a smile, “but tell me, did you enjoy it?” he asked as he wiped his mouth clean with a napkin.

“Yes, it was delicious,” Riky said with a smile, “thanks, for bringing me here,” she said graciously.

“Stop saying thank you for everything,” Tilak said lightly admonishing her, “I should be the one thanking you for saving me from suffering through a breakfast alone,” he said with a grin, “more coffee?” he asked.

“I don’t mind another cup,” she replied.

“Good,” he said and waved for the server. As she came he quickly ordered two more coffees. “So, what brings you to Chicago?” he asked casually.

Riky felt herself stiffen. The question was a valid one. And over breakfast he had told her a lot about himself. His job as a junior Vice President in one of the top investment banking firms in New York, his apartment in Manhattan, his mother who lived in California, his dad who had passed away when he had been very young. And that he was in Chicago on a personal trip. Social commitments he had called it. She had laughed lightly at it. His sense of humor was starting to melt her cold walls. She felt as if she knew him. It should be okay to tell him why she was here without going into details.

“A wedding,” she replied stiffly.

If he noticed the change in her tone or expression he didn’t show.

“Wow, a Christmas wedding,” he said keeping his tone casual, “though I should say, Hawaii or the Caribbean would have been a good choice for a wedding function during winter season,” he went on, “it is way too cold here,” he said and rubbed his hands together for emphasis.

“It is their wedding,” Riky said and shrugged her delicate shoulders, “though I had been planning a vacation to the Cayman,” she told him.

“Nice place,” he said.

“You have visited there before,” she asked curiously.

“Sure, have seen most of them, Jamaica, Bahamas, I went all the way to Puerto Rico, though am still trying to muster courage to visit Aruba or Bora Bora,” he said thoughtfully then grinned.

“Why?” she asked again.

“My lady, even though I earn the top dollar, it is very expensive,” he said and winked.

Riky made an ‘o’ with her mouth.

“You seem quite the traveler,” she said and smiled.

“I love travelling,” Tilak agreed.

The server arrived with their coffees and they fell silent for a while. Though Riky realized she didn’t mind. She liked the companionable silence. It was comforting rather than awkward. She couldn’t help but compare Tilak with Rohan. She could compare Tilak with another person from a bit more in the past but decided not to. Rohan had been so different. A chatterbox. Not that Tilak was a quiet person. But he knew when to take a pause. Rohan didn’t. She realized how much it used to annoy her sometimes. There were times when she had wanted to just sit quietly and savor a moment but Rohan had never let her do that. He never gave her the space to think. To be one with herself. He wasn’t dominating. No. He was just… always stepping on her toes for lack of a better phrase. It had resulted in constant arguments and fights. Was that what had driven him away? Did it matter? She shook her head slightly. She had known Rohan for almost five months before she had found he had been cheating on her. As for Tilak she hadn’t known him for twenty four hours but she felt comfortable with him. Relaxed. Soothed. She felt as if she knew him. Did she trust him? The question was back to haunt her. She didn’t know. Was she beginning to trust him? She didn’t know that either. She looked at him. He was stirring his coffee with a smile. His eyes weren’t on what he was doing. Instead he was looking out the window. She followed his gaze. He was looking at an old couple who were helping each other cross the road. They must easily be in their eighties. The man held a cane and the woman held onto his arm. They were wrapped inside warm winter coats and hats and gloves. But it was the warmth that they displayed for each other, affection, the smiles which beckoned someone to stop and look.

“It is rare to see such display of affection,” Tilak said quietly.

“I agree,” Riky said hoping she didn’t sound wistful. She looked back and found Tilak watching her curiously. “What?” she asked consciously.

“Are you in a relationship?” Tilak asked. His tone was still quiet.

“No,” Riky said hating how her voice had turned sharp at that question.

“How come?” Tilak asked, “You are a beautiful girl Riky,” he said sincerely and Riky felt a bit of her anger subside at that, “it is strange you don’t have a guy in your life,” he said.

The pain was back. Why did he have to ask her that? Beauty didn’t have anything to do with a relationship or a man? It was the feelings. The commitment. One could find several women more beautiful than the other, it didn’t mean a thing. Sometimes she did feel that being beautiful was probably more of a curse. She constantly battled her insecurities that came with it. She was a confident girl, most times but there were those moments when she was plagued with self-doubts. Several of them. Rejection was always painful. And it did leave you to wonder, that if you have everything, name, fame, beauty then what was the cause for that rejection? Why would someone leave you if you had everything going for you? And she had faced it twice in two of her very serious relationships. The saying went ‘Once bitten twice shy’. What saying would fit her situation? But this was not the time to go into her self-analysis. He was waiting for an answer. What should she say to him? What would be a good answer?

“I swore off men a couple of months back,” she told him curtly.

Tilak looked at her. At the controlled outburst. She hadn’t screamed. Maybe it was something she didn’t do often. But the anger and the pain was something she couldn’t really control. He had heard it. Why did he have to ask her? He knew the reasons. Well, one aspect of it anyway. It had been such a good morning. The spur of the moment decision to see her. Of course, returning the scarf was one of the reasons but he could have dropped it off at the reception and the staff would have seen to it that she received it. Besides, it had been an inconsequential little piece of cloth, she wouldn’t have even missed it. But the urge to see her, make sure she was alright had been too big to ignore. He hadn’t missed the surprise on her face when she had spotted him. He had felt her resistance. Even her reluctance. But more than that he had felt her need. Need to not be alone. And he had taken the opportunity with both hands. The way she had been awed by the gingerbread house, or that grin when the kids running around the tree in the hotel lobby were singing Jingle bells. A lot of people believed Christmas to be the most magical time of the year. And he was one of them. He had seen some really good things happen during the holidays. And he wanted to feel the same magic. He wanted her to feel it. To bring that smile back to not just her lips but even her eyes. He had stopped thinking about reasons for his actions and reactions to her. For once he just wanted to go with the flow. Even if it brought heartache at the end he was willing to risk it. He was willing to savor the memories this little time with her would grant him. He smiled.

“I do believe you don’t always react this way,” he said calmly and saw her pain reflect in her eyes. She wasn’t really good at masking how she felt, “and I do believe someone hurt you…really bad,” he said quietly as she turned her face to look out the window her chin quivered a little, “but then these are the holidays,” he said with a warm smile and she looked back at him, he saw confusion in her eyes, “time to forgive and forget,” he told her as raised his coffee, “magical time of the year,” he said and winked at her.

“It isn’t easy to either forget or forgive,” Riky said tightly. Why did he have to ask her those questions and remind her of what she was trying desperately to forget? They had been having such a good time. She had been enjoying her time. And she had forgotten all the reasons about why she was here. That gave her pause. She had forgotten. Before he had reminded her of it. She was truly enjoying herself. Granted she wasn’t completely out of it but with him, things had seemed about as normal as they could have been. How come? Back in London after the breakup, several of her friends had tried to comfort her, help her, but they had remained unsuccessful. And this man she probably had nothing in common with, a man she didn’t know much about, except for what he had told her had been able to comfort her, relax her, so much so she had almost forgotten the pains and the scars that ran deep inside her. Almost being the operative word. She needed to watch out. This man could prove to be dangerous if she let herself get too carried away. And what was it he just said? He said this was the magical time of the year. For who? It certainly wasn’t for her. “And it isn’t magical,” she said a bit sourly.

“Sure it is,” Tilak went on ignoring her rude tone. He was fast becoming sure it was more bluff than anything else. She just wanted people to stay away. Of course, haughtiness was an ingrained part of her nature. The cool aloof attitude was also a result of years of practice. But she was a warm person. With the right people around. He sure was the right person. “Look around you,” he said as he glanced outside the window and despite herself she followed his gaze, “everyone is in such a good mood, such a festive mood, it is the season of giving, of sharing, of loving,” he said and paused then looked back at her. She was looking at him strangely, “what? You don’t believe me,” he asked with mirth.

“Exactly how long have you been in the States?” Riky asked a bit amused.

“About twenty years,” Tilak answered, “I was nine when my family moved here,” he told her.

“No wonder,” she said, “it is kind of strange to be so upbeat about Christmas and the magic of the season for anyone who has just moved…you being here for that long makes more sense,” she told him shaking her head.

“Hey, come on,” Tilak said with a grin, “okay, how about I show you,” he said in a challenge.

“What do you mean?” Riky asked cautiously. She hadn’t missed the glint of challenge in his eyes.

“Here is the deal, let me take you around,” he said and saw her mouth open in protest but he raised his hand and she reluctantly closed it, “hear me out. Let me take you around, you do whatever I tell you to, no questions asked, just for today and by the end of it, if you don’t feel the spirit of Christmas, I will do whatever you ask me to,” he said and leaned back in his chair.

Riky thought about it. It was a fair challenge. And nothing really dangerous. But for a whole day, with him? He had said he was harmless and so far he hadn’t done anything untoward her that would make her think he was anything otherwise. So what should she do? She could say no. She should say no. But she didn’t want to. She had never been able to resist a challenge. Another thing that ran in the family. But never mind that. She wasn’t doing anything else today. She was free. She could go. Go with him and see what he had to show her. It would be refreshing to see things from his perspective. He sounded so convinced she would change her mind. He so believed in the magic of the holiday season. What was the harm? It had been so long since she had done so much thinking. But having been taken for a ride one too often she was fast becoming suspicious of everything and everyone around her. She was losing herself. She was losing the essence of being who she really was. She would be just as cautious. And have a little fun. She had the right to have fun. To smile. To laugh. Why was she denying herself all of that? She straightened in her chair.

“Done,” she said accepting the challenge, “but then if I don’t change my mind Mr. you are in big trouble,” she told him as she raised a delicate eyebrow at him.

Tilak laughed. He hadn’t realized he had been holding his breath while she debated out his challenge.

“I am sure I won’t land up there,” he told her confidently.

“And what if I lose,” Riky asked just to make sure she hadn’t agreed to do something she wasn’t willing to.

“Then you will have to promise me to make that gorgeous smile a permanent feature on your face,” he told her.

Riky just stared at him. That was it. He just wanted her to smile. And smile often. There was no other catch for her. What was he? Why did he care whether she smiled or not? But before she could ask him, he started talking again.

“Deal?” he asked expectantly.

“Yes,” Riky said, suddenly not so sure about the man before her anymore. Not for any other reason but how he made her feel. And in such a short time.

“Great, then let’s go,” he said as he stood up and wore his jacket before helping her with hers.

“Where?” Riky asked curiously. Suddenly she felt excited. Something she hadn’t felt in days.

“Hey, I am not going to tell you and spoil the fun,” he said and winked at her.

As she gathered her purse and gloves she saw him make his way towards the counter to pay for their breakfast. She needed to ask him to split the bill. How come she hadn’t talked to him about that before? Damn, if she wasn’t losing her mind and wits with it. But as long as her heart stayed in place she was good.

Wasn’t she?

                                                                xxxxxxxxxxxxxx

She shouldn’t have accepted the challenge. She shouldn’t have. Who was this man? It was almost three in the afternoon and she was almost ready to tell him she believed him. The Christmas holidays were magic.

The beautifully decorated streets and numerous small and big Christmas trees around the blocks they walked charmed her. That was the first thing that had started to warm her up towards Tilak’s belief. No car. He had parked it in long term parking and told her in no uncertain terms that to feel how great Christmas could be she had to walk. She wasn’t sure but she had given in. Curious. She knew her feet would kill her by the end of it. But she wanted to see what he had in store for her. How many Santas had she met? She had already lost count. He had taken her for an early show of the Nutcracker in the theatre. How he had managed the tickets last second she had no idea. He had called up someone before that though. And it had been beautiful. She had been in tears by the end of it. The music, the costumes, the whole damn thing had made her feel like a child again. Had made her feel excited. Made her feel alive. Something she had forgotten in the past few years. When they had exited the theatre he had taken her to Starbucks for a hot chocolate…no coffee, but hot chocolate. How long had it been since she had had one? She had recalled how she had wanted to drink one at a barista in London and Rohan had made such fun of her she had decided to have a coffee instead. Why? Why had she done that? Had she been trying to please him? At some level yes. She had wanted his approval. So badly. She wasn’t that kind of person. She wasn’t the type to wait for others’ approval. And for what? She had shaken that memory off. And the hot chocolate she had, was bliss. Tilak hadn’t judged her in fact, he had insisted it was the flavor of the season. Snow plus Christmas was equal to hot chocolate he had pronounced and she had laughed. She had truly really laughed. His humor was starting to melt the frigid walls around her heart. His warmth and casual tone helped too. Before they had left, he had bought another hot chocolate and then two hot dogs from a vendor on the street. And she had been curious, again. It wasn’t for her and neither for him. They had walked back about two buildings and he had stopped before a homeless man with a dog. He had given the hot drink and one hot dog to the man and the second hot dog to the dog, who had gobbled up the treat before him quickly. Then licked Tilak’s gloved hand. Riky had just looked on as the homeless man had thanked Tilak and wished them a merry Christmas. His gesture towards a strange shabby man and his equally dirty dog had made her feel restless. It had touched her somewhere. It had made her think. For once, a bit more about others than just herself. She had stayed silent as he had then taken her to a trinket store. It was a local business and the shop was really small, clustered with a whole lot of things inside. She had wondered why he had brought her there. And then she had found out. He held a small globe, with snowflakes inside that danced as she turned it around. A snowman with a red carrot for a nose moved with the snow and the tall buildings represented the city they were in. Chicago. It was written at the base of the globe. It was nothing exceptional and yet it carried the spirit of the season. The big expensive gifts she had received on her birthday three months ago suddenly paled before what he had given her. Why was she feeling this way? And she had found she didn’t have an answer. There was only one gift which she had received on her birthday from her brother and sister in law that had made any connection with her. It had been an album of printed photographs of all the good times she had spent with her brother through their years growing up and some with her sister in law, ending with a full page photograph of her whole family. She had cried over the phone when she had called up to thank them. That one gift was close to her heart and now this globe. She knew she would keep it close too. As they had left the store he had taken her to a pizza joint. And told her if she hadn’t had the deep dish pizza while visiting Chicago she hadn’t had anything. Though she had protested over the calories he had told her it was the holidays and it was mandatory she ate a little more than usual. Besides her hotel had an excellent gym she could burn off the calories there. She had teased him about if that was what he did. And he had only grinned and told her it was a secret she wasn’t supposed to tell anyone. As they had shared the pizza since she wasn’t really hungry after the big breakfast, she had silently thought of the man she was sharing her day with. He was casual, fun and attractive. But he was also serious, sincere and very affectionate. There had been a few times when her boots had slipped on icy pavements but he had been there to steady her. Gently. She was slowly beginning to associate strength with him. And inner strength that so many lacked these days. She didn’t see him boast about anything or try to show off that he was someone. It was as if he was comfortable with who he was. The place, the time, the people nothing mattered to him. He was sophisticated and yet playful. There was so much she had found out about him in a matter of just hours. It was almost ridiculous. Because she actually felt as if she had known him longer. As if they had been friends since… forever. The ease with which he let her be and yet included her in everything he was saying and doing amazed her. She knew a lot of men. Which included a lot of rotten ones too but she had never known someone like him. She had objected when he had taken out his card for payment but he had waved it off telling her since he had invited her out he would be paying for everything and maybe when he visited London and she took him out she could return the favor. All she had done was shake her head. She wasn’t even sure if they would even meet again. However, some part of her was. How, she didn’t know. And she was past asking. He hadn’t been insistent but the manner in which he had told her had taken away most of her protests. So she had told him dinner was on her. And he had agreed.

She sat on a bench by the river that flowed through Chicago city. It wasn’t completely frozen, just partially, thin layers of ice gently flowed along with it. Her feet were tired. She didn’t remember when she had walked so much the last time. Her hands warm inside the pockets of her overcoat. Tilak had gone to the ice cream shop right across the road. She closed her eyes for just a second as the sounds and smells from around her took over. It was a cold day, no doubt but with the sun out it was a good day to be out. How come the time had passed so quickly? It was three in the afternoon already. And what was more surprising was that she was feeling great. Her anger and pain still hovered around the edges but they were down, considerably. How come? The betrayal of those she had considered to be her own suddenly didn’t seem all that consequential. She opened her eyes as she caught the whiff of Tilak’s aftershave. He was back.

“Here, you go princess,” he said as he gave her a cone with a strange looking scoop of ice cream in it.

“What flavor is it?” she asked as she eyed the strange white ice cream with little pink dots in it.

“Don’t be a spoilsport, taste it and see,” Tilak said as he took a bite of his funny green looking ice cream, “you will like it,” he told her and smiled.

“I don’t think so,” she said as she looked at her ice cream again.

“Trust me,” Tilak said with a smile.

Riky looked at him. ‘Trust me’ he said. Did she? She had so far and it had been good. Oh hell, what was the harm? If she didn’t like it she will ask him to get another one. She tentatively licked her ice cream before she took a bite of it. And felt the first flavors burst on her tongue. The white was definitely vanilla, and the little pink dots were definitely peppermint candy. But there was another flavor. Something she had tasted before, a long time ago but she couldn’t place it.

“What is this?” she asked him curiously.

“I told you, you will like it,” Tilak said in a teasing voice, “and while you are at it, how about you tell me what you taste?” he said.

“Umm, it has vanilla and those pink things are peppermint candy,” she said and looked at him.

“Very good, you have a great career in tasting food,” he told her humorously, “and…” he prompted.

“I have tasted it before but I just can’t place it,” she replied with a frown.

“No need to get so ruffled dear,” Tilak said with a smile, “it is something we all eat as kids and then as we grow up we find it too sticky and too kiddish to try,” he told her then glanced her way, “it is usually pink and fluffy…” he said and would have gone on when she quickly interrupted him.

“Cotton candy,” she said with an excited yelp.

“That food tasting career is just the thing for you,” he told her lightly.

And Riky took the bite of her ice cream. Happy. That was the word. She was happy. She wasn’t feeling her low, miserable self. She was feeling confident and very…herself.

“What flavor did you pick?” she asked Tilak.

“Pistachio,” he told her and she screwed her nose.

“Ewww, that is one of the worst ice creams ever,” she told him.

“I wanted to try it,” he said with a smile, “and I agree, not one of the best flavors,” he said.

“You should have consulted me,” she said with a teasing smile, “I have a great career in food tasting you know,” she told him then laughed lightly.

Tilak smiled.

“You look amazing when you laugh, you know that,” he said quietly.

Riky looked at him for a second and was captivated by what she saw in his eyes. Sincerity. There was no ulterior motive for his compliment. At least none she could detect. He really meant what he said. And she felt a strange warmth wrap itself around her. Cocooning her. She felt absolutely normal with him. She didn’t have to pretend to be someone else. She could be herself and he wouldn’t even blink. She sighed.

“Thanks Tilak,” she said as she gazed out at the river, “I am really sorry for the way I behaved with you, yesterday, it was just that…I don’t know, I don’t trust men anymore,” she told him. Stop. She heard her mind command her. But she couldn’t. She needed to tell him. At least something about herself. “Usually, I don’t behave that way but…things haven’t been sane around me for some time now. So, I just…” she said and would have gone on when she felt a gentle hand on her shoulder and she looked at him.

“You don’t need to give me an explanation Riky,” Tilak said in an understanding tone, “life does dole out a lot of trash every now and then, besides it is okay to be wary of strangers. It is usually good than bad. And I gathered you are a different person,” he said and she looked at him a bit surprised, “hey, I have been spending the day with you too remember,” he told her gently. Softly.

Riky smiled and looked away at the river. What was it about him that calmed her down? She took in a deep breath then released it.

“Can I ask you something?” she said as she turned her body to look better at him.

“Sure,” Tilak said as he finished his ice cream and wiped his hands on the tissue he had brought from the shop.

“Why did you give that homeless man the coffee and that hot dog?” she asked seriously. It had made her restless. And she wanted to know. She had a reason. Was this the kind of man he was or had he been trying to impress her?

“Hmmm, good question,” he said as he looked at the river leaning against the back of the bench, “I earn about two hundred and thirty thousand dollars a year,” he told her, “which is a lot of money for a bachelor like me at my age, out of which I send some to my mother, some goes into the payment of my mortgage over my apartment, some on my expenditure and most of it goes into savings,” he said with a faint smile, “I guess I have enough that I can share some with another fellow being,” he told her but he didn’t look at her.

She stayed silent as she watched him. There was more. She could sense it. Would he tell her? She didn’t know. She was as much a stranger to him as he was to her. Did she want to know? She did. And though it should have surprised her it didn’t.

“Tilak...” she said and paused.

And Tilak drew in a deep breath. He knew she was waiting. For complete honesty. It was a small gesture. Most people wouldn’t bother even asking about it. But she had. He had felt her go a bit quiet when she had been there. She hadn’t attempted to interfere or help nor had she said what a nice thing he had done. He had felt her withdrawal. And he had let her be. During lunch he had thought she had forgotten about it. And he had thought the same till now. Maybe he could tell her. She didn’t trust him. And he couldn’t blame her. But she was trying. Maybe this could help. Because it might tell her a little more about him.

“I was eleven when my dad passed away,” he said in a serious tone, “my mother had been a housewife all her life, she had maybe, never even thought that one day when her husband would suddenly depart like that she wouldn’t have anyone to look up to,” he said and sighed, “those were bad days Riky. Most of our relatives tried to shy away from what they might have thought a situation where they will have to help out. But my mother never once asked for favors. She was a tough one. Still is,” he said and smiled faintly, “though she might not look the part. We couldn’t go back to India because we had sold off everything to come here with a one way ticket. My father’s idea of a better life. My mother took up a job in a store, working hard, she even worked part time to make ends meet. There were times when we didn’t have much on the table, saving every penny we could,” he said and drawing in a deep breath looked up at the blue sky, “that was the worst time. I was sixteen when I took up my first job, I had known one thing that if I worked right, studied hard I would get there. Since I was good with numbers, genetics,” he said and smiled wryly, “my father was really good with those, so a career in finance was most suitable. It was a struggle to prove myself and I worked doubly hard to reach where I am today,” he said and smiled with satisfaction, “I live a comfortable life right now and I know where I want to be in future but I also know that life is very precious so I try to not miss out on the beauty of it. So every now and then when I can, I do try to do something for those who aren’t as fortunate as I am. That is why I gave that drink and food to that man, Riky, I have enough that I can share some with others. And this is the season of sharing right,” he told her as he finally looked at her, “and I love dogs,” he said, “I couldn’t see that poor fellow hungry, it is Christmas for him too,” he said and smiled.

Riky didn’t know what to say. His life story said a lot about him. The boy he was and the man he had become. He was self-taught and self-made. He was around the same age as her second older brother but what a difference between them. She had never faced adversity. At least not the kind Tilak spoke off. She had been born with a silver spoon and she had never had to worry over lack of materialistic things. Emotional, yes. But nothing else. She knew about loss though. His gesture towards that strange homeless man spoke volumes. He was a very good human being. Kind. Giving. Caring. Not many were like that. Best, there was not even a hint of arrogance in him. He earned well, lived a comfortable life, but that was now, he knew the pain of having less. How it felt when there was barely sufficient to even eat. What a hard life he had had? His mother too. She felt proud of who he was. Proud of the fact that she knew him. But she couldn’t help the lone tear that rolled down her cheek.

“Hey,” Tilak said almost alarmed when he saw that. He hadn’t expected her to cry. It was a sad story but it had been the past, his present and future were pretty good. Before he knew his hand shot out to wipe the rolling tear away. He couldn’t see her cry. “I am sorry, I didn’t mean to make you upset,” he told her gently.

“You didn’t,” she said as she held his hand in hers. This was probably the first time she had touched him voluntarily. “I am just really proud of who you are Tilak,” she said with pride, “and I am really glad to know you,” she told him and held his hand in both of hers as she smiled.

Tilak didn’t know what to make of her. But he did know he had broken through one of the barriers she kept around. He smiled back. What was it about her that made him feel at peace? He was not sure. But he sure as hell would like to find out.

“Come on princess,” he said as he rose missing the warmth of her gloved hands, “we still have tons of things to do to turn you into a believer by the time this day ends,” he said and offered her his hand to rise from her seat.

Riky took his hand without hesitation this time. Smiling she picked up her purse and walked with him.

Destiny smiled. Riky seemed to be moving in the right direction with the correct man. Though when she will realize Tilak was the right one, was what destiny had no clue about.

                                                                        Xxxxxxxxx

He was mad. And she was equally mad.

She had never skated in her life. And here she was holding on for dear life to the edge of the ice skating rink. Where the hell had he found this place? It wasn’t far from their hotels he had told her. Somewhere in the middle. Like she cared. She was so scared of falling that she refused to let go of the banister.

“It is easy,” Tilak said trying to cajole her into letting go of the banister around the rink.

“Easy for you to say?” Riky said quickly, “How long have you been doing this?” she asked.

“About five years,” Tilak said and grinned.

Riky looked at him annoyed.

“It is so slippery,” she complained, “I will fall. I shouldn’t have let you convince me otherwise,” she said as she shrieked when she felt her feet slip from beneath her.

“Come on Riky, it is going to be fun, trust me, I will show you how to balance, you will be fine,” Tilak said gently.

Riky glared at him. She did realize she was making a spectacle of herself. She looked around her. Even little kids were skating like pros. It didn’t look that bad. She just needed to balance her body weight. On her two legs. Which were on two feet encased in those ice skates. She should at least give it a try. It was the least she could do. Tilak was trying to make this fun for her and she was giving him such a hard time. She bit her lip. Then straightened slowly.

“Okay,” she said trying to sound confident, “but you promise you won’t leave my hand,” she said.

“I promise,” Tilak said with a smile, “cross my heart, now come on,” he said and held both her hands in his.

They started out slow and steady.

“Easy, you are doing great,” he said encouraging her.

Riky felt the air gently move around her face and hair. It felt good even though it was cold. It wasn’t as difficult as she had thought. Tilak held her hands straight out on both sides almost as if they were having a ballroom dance. He asked her to keep her weight evenly balanced on both feet and move as if she was gliding. The skates did the rest for her. The solid frozen ice was slippery and the blades were made to glide on the surface. After fifteen minutes she breathed easy and glided over the snow slowly. She stumbled and slipped but Tilak caught her. His teases made her laugh. And soon she forgot about her concerns over the ice and falling. When she was sure, she let go of Tilak’s hands. On her own. As she glided slowly over the ice rink she felt great. Free. Happy. She kept out her hands to keep her upright. Tilak was right ahead of her. He moved with such confidence. Though he kept turning to make sure she was doing fine. Why was he so concerned? Because he felt responsible. For her. Because she was with him. The knowledge made her feel fuzzy. Coming back to the man she noticed how graceful he was in those skates. A pro. His hands were inside the pockets of his wool jacket as he skated. He could go fast. He had proven it to her when she had taken a two minute break. It had been as if his skates had propellers to push him forward at such amazing speed. And he had stopped right before her as if he had applied immediate brakes but without breaking motion. Oh man. He was so agile. So fit. And she felt breathless just watching him. She hadn’t been impressed with his physicality but now she was. The whole package interested her. Attracted her. She wished she could skate like that. So she would match him step for step. Maybe she could learn once she went back to London. The thought made her a little restless. Going back. But that was her home. She pushed the thoughts to the back of her head. As she moved forward she heard some children come in behind her. They would pass her. She knew that. But she turned her head slightly to make sure. That was when her concentration got diverted and she slipped. A terrified scream left her lungs and throat as her legs slipped out from under her suspending her into air for the briefest of seconds before she felt the jarring pain as she fell on her back with her legs in the air. For the next few seconds she lay there dazed. Her eyes wouldn’t focus on anything. She hadn’t hit her head as her back had made the connection with rock solid ice beneath her first. And yet she felt disoriented. She actually saw lights going out of focus completely before coming back into focus. As the voices that had seemed distant become very clear.

“Riky, you okay,” she heard a very concerned voice ask.

Who knew her here? Where was here? And then everything came back to her. She had fallen. On the ice. Like a little child with legs up in the air. As the pain subsided she felt a giggle make its way up her throat and she started laughing soon.

“Is she delirious?” she heard a soft voice ask.

She turned her head and saw the face of a curious little girl. She was pretty.

“No, I am not delirious,” Riky said as she kept laughing.

“That is what my aunt said when she knocked her head on the ice the other day,” the girl responded.

“I am fine,” Riky said. She couldn’t control her laughter.

“Alright, let’s get you up on your feet and see what is tickling you,” Tilak said as he helped her first sit up and then stand, “are you hurt anywhere? Did you hit your head? Riky come on, stop laughing,” he said with a frown.

“I can’t, and I don’t have a ticklish bone in my body,” Riky said as she tried to control her laughter, “I am, how do you say…tickle proof,” she said and then laughed harder at the word.

“Okay, okay, I guess you better sit down for a while,” Tilak said as he put his arm around her waist and slowly took her over to the stands.

As she sat down he gently took off her skates and kept them on the side. Then stood up and turned her head up and looked into her eyes.

“You seem to be okay, your pupils aren’t dilated,” he said seriously.

“I told you I am fine,” she said grinning.

“What is so funny?” Tilak asked wondering if she was delirious and maybe he should take her to the hospital for a checkup.

“Me,” she said and laughed again, “I can’t believe I fell. And that too…like that,” she said making her arms move around the air, “whoosh, I went. Just like Charlie Chaplin used to. It is funny,” she said and pulled her coat around her.

“It is,” Tilak responded and smiled back.

“I am fine Tilak,” she said then stretched her muscles a bit in her back, “maybe a bit sore but the pain is all but gone. Relax,” she said.

“Maybe it wasn’t a good idea after all,” Tilak said as he sat next to her.

“It was. I enjoyed it,” Riky said quickly, “and thanks to you I can glide over the ice now, it was fun,” she said happily, “funny, how Rohan and I never did anything like that,” she said and paused.

What had she just said? Why had she taken Rohan’s name? Ohhhh. It had suddenly changed the mood. She could feel stillness around her.

“Who is Rohan?” Tilak asked carefully.

“My…my ex-boyfriend,” Riky replied then quickly went on, “can we forget I took his name. Please,” she said a bit gravely.

“Who Rohan again,” Tilak said with an understanding smile.

How could he understand? How could he know how she felt? It didn’t feel right. Only it did. She sighed.

“Hot chocolate?” Tilak asked.

“Again,” Riky said a bit weary now.

“Yup, with marshmallows this time,” he said with a mischievous smile.

“I will weigh ten pounds more than I did when I arrived in Chicago,” Riky said with a faint smile.

“You will still look stunning,” Tilak said with a sincere smile.

And Riky nodded her assent. She watched Tilak take off his skates too and then walk to the counter to first return the gear and get their original shoes and boots back. Then go to the local vendor for hot chocolates. It was seven thirty and the lights had come on in the city. Tall buildings glittered in the growing darkness. It was so beautiful. And magical just as Tilak had said. Christmas songs poured over the speakers. It was all so festive. And she had been having so much fun. Then she had to go ahead and ruin everything by taking the loser’s name. She suddenly looked up. Rohan was a loser. In every way possible. So why was she feeling depressed over what he had done. Wasn’t it good riddance? Had their relationship extended or they had gotten married her life would have been ruined? Again. So it was a blessing in disguise. So why did she feel hurt? She knew why. Because of the way it had happened. Had they broken off amicably she would have been in a much better shape but that was so not the case. Things had gotten downright dirty. So much so that Rohan had spewed venom at her. And then had the galls to invite her, for his wedding. Damn him. She took in a few calming breaths. She wasn’t the forgiving types. Not that easily at least. She looked at Tilak who was coming back towards her. He bumped into someone and quickly apologized with that charming smile. He was careful to not spill any of the hot liquid he carried over the children he passed. He was careful for everyone. Considerate for everyone. And in that moment she knew how drawn she was towards him. Not a good idea. Only she couldn’t help but disagree. There was a bit of attraction thrown in too. Yes. But it was the man who drew her to him. And this was when she had known him for only a day. Was this even real? Or was it rebound? Since he was so different from the men she had had relationships with previously. She didn’t know. But everything about him felt right. So right, she couldn’t begin to explain. Did he feel the same way about her? Was that why he was determined to make her believe in the beauty of what lay around her? Or was it just because he felt her misery and upset? A charity case? She bit her lip. She didn’t like that last thought at all. She looked at him again and then pasted a quick smile as he reached her side.

“Here you go,” he said and sat next to her handing her, her boots.

“Thank you,” she said and wore them quickly.

“And here is your extra special hot chocolate with five marshmallows,” he said and handed her the cup.

“Thank you, O kind Sir,” Riky said with a pleased smile. And saw him grin.

As she took a sip of her hot beverage the cream and the froth clung to the seams of her top lip. She looked like a cat and Tilak smiled broadly.

“Now that is what I call a Cheshire cat grin,” he said and took out a tissue to give it to her.

But instead of taking it Riky quickly pushed her face forward and shaking his head at her Tilak gently wiped the cream off. Riky felt her skin tingle as his fingers gently brushed against it in order to clean her mouth up. Not a good move, came the warning. But she didn’t want to heed it. She was enjoying herself and she didn’t want to stop. It had been so long.

“Why did you take your skates off?” Riky asked once he was done, “Don’t you want to skate some more?” she asked.

“I skate as often as I want, back in New York, here it was just for you,” he told her, “and I was really enjoying it, but since you fell and now you are sitting here, I wouldn’t want to skate alone,” he told her, “besides sometimes it is just good to see others skate and maybe even fall,” he said in a conspirational tone and just then they heard someone scream.

As they both looked a blonde woman fell. Her feet up in the air. And both Riky and Tilak chuckled.

“There goes another one,” Tilak said as he saw a man who was not so steady on his feet bump into the woman who had fallen and was now struggling to get up and they both fell on the ice again.

“You shouldn’t make fun of them,” Riky admonished mockingly, “I fell as well,” she said.

“You were really good sweetheart,” Tilak said as he looked at the two fallen adults trying to apologize and get up at the same time, “the first time I wore those skates I slipped the second I stepped on the ice. And God knows the countless other times I took the fall, it was a very painful education in the world of ice skating,” he said and chuckled.

Riky smiled. Feeling really warm inside at his use of ‘sweetheart’. She looked away from his profile then. It was going too fast. Way too fast for her. She would face heartbreak at this rate. She decided to try and distance herself from the charming man. But how?

“Don’t you have any girlfriends?” Riky asked with a smile.

“Nope,” Tilak said as he took a last swig off his glass and crushed it in his hands, “never even tried to get into the hassles of it,” he told her.

“Why not?” Riky asked curiously.

Tilak shrugged.

“I don’t know, I never had the time or the inclination and then the terrible pain my friends used to be in when they were in relationships, both men and women, the stories they shared,” he said and smiled mischievously, “I was happy I was single,” he said.

“You are a good looking man Tilak, some would even say handsome,” Riky said and saw his eyebrows rise, “don’t tell me, no girl ever proposed to you,” she said almost in surprise.

“Well, I guess I was always so busy with what I was doing that even if someone did I wouldn’t have noticed,” he said then put a hand to his jaw and stroked it as if he was thinking, “and now that you mention it, I guess there was a girl in my office. I had once found a bouquet waiting for me in my cabin though the flowers had wilted, and I had wondered who would give me a bouquet of wilted flowers when I had read the note,” he told her, “it had been placed there about a week ago with a proposal from Willow, that was the girl’s name, only I had noticed it seven days later and she was already entangled with another colleague by then. She had cried over his shoulder about how I was so ‘not into her’. And well, I was past,” he said and grinned.

Riky looked at him if he was serious. Then at the devilish gleam in his eyes she hit him on his shoulder.

“You are really rotten Tilak,” she said in mock anger.

“You think so,” Tilak said with a light laugh as he rubbed his shoulder, “for the size of you, you do whack quite a wallop,” he complained.

“Poor Willow,” was all Riky said before she laughed.

“Not really,” Tilak said with a grin.

“Seriously Tilak,” Riky said as she ate her marshmallow, “no one?” she asked as she glanced at him.

Tilak sighed. What would she think if he told her the truth? Nope, she would run as fast as she could, away from him calling him a lunatic. Well, she could call him a lot worse than that but…lunatic was a safe word.

“There is someone,” he said carefully and saw a mask fall over her face, “and I do believe she is the one for me, only…” he said and paused.

“Only?” Riky said prompting him to finish his sentence.

“Only she will never agree to my proposal,” he said and looked away, “let’s just say she is unavailable at the moment,” he told her.

“Did you try to tell her how you feel about her?” Riky asked seriously.

“No, it wouldn’t sit well with her, not at present,” Tilak told her, “if we are meant to be together, she will come to me,” he said and rose.

Riky rose with him and steadied herself as she put a hand on his arm then turned to look at him.

“You don’t believe that Tilak,” Riky said seriously, “come on, how do you think she will know, how you feel if you don’t tell her. After that what she decides is up to her but you need to tell her. Don’t think there is going to be a prophesy about you and her being together or that she will dream of you one day and come running,” she told him, “you have to go get her. That is if you are serious about her,” she said suddenly feeling she had said too much. It was his problem. He hadn’t pushed her for any information, neither had he broached the subject of her ex-boyfriend with her again either. So why was she so concerned? And that too about him and another girl.

“I understand Riky, but let’s just say she doesn’t know me as well,” Tilak said quietly, his eyes on her, “and it seems she won’t in future too,” he said softly. Too softly.

Riky looked up. And found herself unable to look away. In the dim lights she saw so many emotions swirling in the depths of his eyes. She was sure she didn’t want to know what they were. She felt her breath shorten. She had a feeling he was talking about her? But that wasn’t possible. She was reading too much. And she pulled herself together forcing herself to look away.

“Come on,” Tilak said breaking the silence that had seemed to take over, “let’s grab some dinner and then there is a little more to do after that,” he said and smiling at her took her hand in his.

Riky looked at their joined hands. She should pull away. But it was just a few more hours. It was okay. Though in her heart she knew that wasn’t the reason. The real reason was that she felt the rightness of her hand in his. Even through the gloves she felt the warmth of his skin. And she wanted to savor the feel of it for as long as she could. She decided to not bother herself with anything more for the next few hours.

And she didn’t.

                                                               Xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

“You have got to be kidding me,” Riky said with eyes as big as saucers in her face as she looked incredulously at Tilak.

“Don’t be a spoilsport now, princess,” Tilak said cajoling her into doing the last fun thing he had planned.

“No way,” Riky stood there with her arms across her chest, “and what’s with the ‘princess’ thing,” she asked as she glared at him.

“Don’t you like it, I thought all girls liked being referred to as a ‘princess’,” Tilak said casually, “and I do like to call you that. It suits you,” he told her.

“Do I come across as a spoilt brat to you?” Riky said acidly.

“Is that how princesses are?” he asked as if it surprised him, “No, you come across as a regal, poised and beautiful person, both in and out,” Tilak told her.

Riky narrowed her eyes at him. She was looking for one hint of mockery. Just one. But she didn’t find any. All she found was respect and admiration for herself. And she was floored. For the nth time today the man had managed to calm her down. Did he really view her in that light? Rohan had called her a frigid, spoilt brat. Those had been his parting words to her. How much had they hurt? Then. But now with Tilak, having spent an entire day with him she felt amazing. Beautiful. Confident. She smiled suddenly.

“Then it is okay to call me ‘princess’,” she said brightly.

“Good, now that we have that settled, can we do this,” Tilak said with a smile, “it might snow a bit again and I want to get you back to the safety of your hotel before that,” he said.

Riky felt the fuzzy feeling again. He hadn’t said he wanted to get out of it, he had said he wanted to get her to the safety of her hotel first. It mattered. The thought. The words. The concern. Rohan had never been that considerate. It had all been about him. And this was when they had been in a relationship. She was beginning to see what a sissy he had been. So delicate. If it would rain he would wrap himself up in a rain jacket, boots and with an umbrella on his head. As if he would melt. If they were on a beach, he would use those sunscreen lotions at least two bottles a day. As if the sun rays would fry him. If there was snow, he would refuse to even venture out. And she had been fond of him. Eewww. How come she had suffered though all of those tantrums without a question? Bad judgment. He was the one who was a spoilt brat. After coming to London it was so important to make new friends, she was so ready to adjust and please she hadn’t taken all of this in account. Sure he was handsome. No doubt there. With chiseled good looks. But he had always lacked the courage and the brains. His father was a diamond merchant and he helped his father with the business. He was a rich man but not of his own making. She had even found him dull and boring at a later point. And she had been just another feather in his cap. A beautiful girl who had the correct background and was successful as well. Granted she had the strong backing of her family but her skill was her own. She hadn’t inherited it from someone or gotten it as a gift. It was her mind and hard work that she ran her own design house successfully. Their relationship had been so suffocating and she hadn’t even realized it. Or maybe she had. Towards the end of it all she had begun to question him…a lot. Sarcasm had come to her rescue because that had become an outlet for her to release her pent up emotions. It was good riddance in every sense of the word. And she couldn’t even begin to compare Rohan to Tilak. There was no comparison. They were poles apart. With Tilak she was beginning to realize this was how a man should be. This was how a relationship should be. Riky quickly inhaled a deep breath.

“You won’t let me fall,” she asked tilting her chin at an angle as she put her hands inside her overcoat pockets.

“No, I won’t,” Tilak said sincerely, “that is what this game is, you fall and I will catch you,” he told her, “trust me, you don’t have to worry about getting snow over you, because you won’t even touch it,” he promised.

Riky looked skeptically at the big dump of snow near where they had parked Tilak’s car in the morning. Then at Tilak. He had promised. And his voice had held honesty. He was asking her to trust him. Something a huge part of her wasn’t ready to do. But the tiny part insisted. Insisted that she listen and trust her instincts. She turned around and taking in a deep breath sent up a prayer that she won’t be disappointed and this wasn’t some silly joke.

“Ready?” she asked. Her voice a bit tight. She was placing her trust in him. Maybe this was nothing to him but it was a big jump for her.

“Yup,” Tilak said.

And she heard the confidence in his voice. Along with assurance.

“Okay then, I still think this is silly but…if you insist,” she said and sticking her arms out closed her eyes and fell backwards.

It wasn’t easy if one was to ask her. To fall deliberately. It went against every instinct and reflex. Top to that to be sure that the person you were putting your faith into, would catch you. Just as she was positive she would hit the snow he caught her. She felt his strong arms hold her around her shoulders tightening to brace for her weight. And yet they were gentle. His breath fanned against her cheek as he held her. And Riky felt something lift off her shoulders making her weightless. She wasn’t for him she was sure but as if suddenly everything was clear, beautiful, at peace. She had put her trust in him and he hadn’t broken it. He hadn’t turned it into some kind of prank and let her fall. He wasn’t laughing. But she felt like it. She didn’t give in to it but she did smile. Brightly. Broadly. Slowly she felt him straighten her.

“See, I told you,” he said his voice reverberating close to her ear, “I will catch you. You can never fall on my watch. You aren’t that heavy you know or maybe those workouts in the gym were really beneficial,” he told her as he lifted her back to her feet and turned her around.

He hadn’t been counting on the beautiful smile she had on her face. Her eyes shone with a strange light. And her skin glowed, her cheeks slightly red because of the cold. And he felt his breath hitch in his throat. Up this close and with that dazzling smile she was gorgeous. He couldn’t let her go. His arms still around her shoulders. She stood so close to him. And with her height it wasn’t really difficult to view her. Her head was just an inch shorter and it was tilted up towards him as she looked at him. Despite his best efforts his hand lifted of its own and grazed her cheek. Gently. He wished he wasn’t wearing his gloves. He would have known the feel of her skin against his hand. What was he doing? What was he thinking? She was just beginning to trust him. If he did anything out of character she would bolt. If he wanted this connection between them to grow into something stronger, something lasting he better take it easy. She was like a scared filly right now, one wrong move and…she needed time. Something they didn’t have. But he still had to give it to her. Take things at a pace she set. As that thought took root in his head, he slowly let his hand drop and released her completely. Taking a step back, he forced a smile.

“Thank you,” she whispered.

“For what,” Tilak said with a slight frown.

She seemed different. Almost like when he had seen her the first time. Not at that airport café. The first time he had really seen her. All those months ago. She resembled the happy girl whose photograph had struck a chord inside. She doesn’t know that, said a voice inside his head. Emotions needed to be kept in check. If he showed too much, the fragile bond that was forming between them would be severed viciously. She had told him she didn’t trust men anymore. But looking at her now, it seemed a part of that trust she had lost had been restored.

“For making me believe again,” Riky said with a warm smile and then impulsively hugged him.

Tilak was taken aback. But he quickly wrapped his arms around her. This was probably the first and the last time she would do that. Because the second she found out who he was she might not feel the same way. And find out she will. Damn. This wasn’t how it was supposed to take place. This wasn’t how it was supposed to happen. He had just planned out a breakfast. On a whim. On an impulse. But having spent the day with her…finding out more about her, the way she laughed, her thoughts, her smile, her hurts and pains…he wanted more. He wanted to get to know her better. He wanted to spend more time with her. See if she could feel the same way he felt about her. Only, he knew that none of that was possible. But he was glad he had brought that smile on her face. The mission he had started with after breakfast had been accomplished. And that alone satisfied him. For the time being. How he will curb the greed to be with her or help her with whatever emotions were plaguing her he didn’t know?

“You are welcome,” he said seriously. Too seriously.

Riky didn’t know what had possessed her to hug him. But it felt nice. Nice to be able to feel again. Nice to find out that maybe she wasn’t completely broken on the inside. That there was a part of her that still believed in the goodness of people. There was still a part of her that was strong. She was strong. Not just on the outside, not just for show. But truly strong. It sure as hell felt more than just nice. And she had no one to thank but Tilak. Come to think of it she hadn’t known the man for more than twenty four hours, but now it seemed she knew so much more and not just about him but even about herself. She hadn’t known how she would get through the next few days. So far she had been using her willpower and pride to move on from one day to the next. But now she knew, there was so much more that was there to life, to enjoy, to live. She wouldn’t be bogged down by a few personal setbacks. They were nothing in comparison to what happened to a lot of people out there. She was going to be proud of who she was. Going through experiences only made us better people. Wasn’t it. She wasn’t completely out of it yet. The hurt lingered. But she had found that she could come out of it. Whole. As she slowly disengaged herself from him she saw a strange emotion flicker in his eyes. And she frowned slightly. She had noticed the same thing earlier when he had turned her to face him and had grazed his fingers lightly against her cheek. At that time she hadn’t bothered because she had been in a different zone. But right now, she could see it more clearly. What was it? It seemed to be a strange mix of longing, wistfulness and guilt. Why?

“Are you alright?” she asked concerned.

And saw him blink, once. Then he smiled at her. And that emotion was gone. As if it had never been there.

“Sure I am,” he said and tucked a wayward strand of hair behind her ear, “and I am glad you found that belief again. I did tell you, holidays are magical,” he told her with that lazy grin she was fast associating just with him.

“So you did,” she said even as she searched his eyes to make sure she wasn’t missing anything.

“Which means I win my challenge and you will have to smile more often,” he said and the twinkle was back in his eyes.

“I don’t promise but I will try,” Riky said with a smile of her own, “and you know what I guess I want to try,” she told him.

“Great,” Tilak said and offered her his arm which she took without any hesitation. Was it just this morning she had been reluctant to even talk to him? Look at them now. “Now let’s get my princess back to her hotel,” he told her lightly.

And Riky just smiled. The globe he had given her nestled safely in her purse. As they exited the parking lot Riky peered at her escort. The silence between them was comfortable but there was something that ruffled that feeling. Tilak seemed a bit more thoughtful than he had been since the time she had met him last evening. Something was bothering him. What? Should she ask? Maybe it was nothing. Maybe she was thinking too much. But she knew there was something definitely wrong. It couldn’t be otherwise. She had an eye for detail. Something she had inherited in her genes and honed over the years. Her brain was sharp and it was rare she missed anything immediate around her. She hadn’t imagined that look on his face. And this sudden quietness…she didn’t buy that all was well. Only what was wrong she couldn’t figure out.

But did she want to? Now that was the big question. And what would she do when she did find out?

                                                                Xxxxxxxxxxxxx

It was a dull morning. And Riky was sure it was going to be a very dull day too. She had to reach the bachelorette venue by five in the evening. She didn’t want to. Not anymore. It didn’t matter anymore. But she would. If only for a brief time. She wasn’t a forgiving person. Maybe over time. But her hurt was still raw. Though the healing had begun, thanks to Tilak. Besides she had promised herself she would make them squirm in their chairs. She couldn’t break her promise. Definitely not to herself. She practically had a whole day to spend. Alone. And after yesterday she didn’t want to. Only hitch she didn’t have any friends here. None that she could call and say ‘let’s have lunch together’. She had ordered her breakfast to be brought up to her room. And even as she ate she missed company…him, Tilak. Yesterday had been one of the best days of her life in a long time. 

He had made it special for her. And she was beginning to feel better. To feel the positive vibes around her again. She felt sure of herself. Secure. Safe. Happy. ‘You can never fall on my watch’, that is what he had said and she believed it to be true. And the fuzzy feeling from yesterday took over again. In all she felt almost herself again. And it was all due to him. Maybe she could call him and see if he was free. If nothing else maybe they could have a cup of coffee together. He had told her last night that he was tied up for the evening. His social commitment, he had reminded her with a smile. So she knew he won’t be available for the evening. Which was kind of good because she wasn’t either. But he hadn’t said anything about the hours of the day. Why was she seeking his company? She could go out alone and have that ‘me’ time she was always cribbing about. Roam the city streets, maybe shop a little and then have a nice lunch somewhere. She could explore things all by herself. She wasn’t averse to doing that. Hell, she had explored all of Rome, alone. And she had had a blast. Observing people around her. Language. Culture. But then Rome had a lot to offer as compared to Chicago. There were tons of things to do here as well, but it was a big city with a lot of skys****ers. She sighed. The basic point was she didn’t want to be alone. And the other point was. She wanted only Tilak for company. She didn’t know why but his presence soothed her on levels she couldn’t even describe. But something had been off about him last night.

After that little game of ‘I fall you catch’, he had seemed withdrawn for some reason. Riky frowned slightly as she sipped her orange juice. Why did she have that feeling that something was wrong? That something wasn’t right? She trusted her instincts. Agreed, she made a lot of bad decisions but still, one couldn’t really not listen to instinct. There was a mixed reaction. A part of her was sure he was a wonderful person and he had been honest about who he is and most of his emotions. And then there was another part that had seen a glimpse of guilt in his eyes. Now this was the part that made her restless. What was there to be guilty about? What was there to be wistful about? She didn’t know. Nothing untoward had happened. Nothing bad had happened. He hadn’t done anything to make her uncomfortable so why would he feel guilty? Or was it something else. Was there another reason? Maybe it was nothing to do with her. But that suspicious part refused to buy that logic. If it was nothing to do with her then there was absolutely no reason for him to feel anything but happiness, it argued. Riky felt her frown deepen. Then she pushed the doubting Thomas back into the closet. There was no point in thinking so much. She had her own doubts and guilts and miseries. Maybe he had too. She had asked him to not pressure her into revealing more and he had respected that request, then she should give him the same space. They were just friends. Though to her it felt more but yes, officially that was the status she had given their association. Because everything he had done was what friends did for each other. Very good friends. Though they were not at that level right now. However, she wanted to get to that level. How often did you meet such a wonderful person? A man like him went a long way in true friendship. And she had decided to be friends with him. Though what she was going to do about the growing attraction she felt for him she had no clue. But it wasn’t so much that she couldn’t handle it. Maybe she will call him in some time and see if they could catch up for a cup of coffee.

With that decided she wondered if there was something else happening in the city that the concierge could tell her about and she could perhaps, go. She finished her juice and grabbing her purse and jacket left.

The card Tilak had given her safely inside her wallet.

                                                              Xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

Riky sat at the coffee shop and watched the crowd on the streets. Had it been this crowded yesterday too? She didn’t remember. With just two days to go for Christmas, stores and malls were packed with people trying to buy last minute gifts for loved ones. Even the restaurants and coffee shops were buzzing with activity. She had caught an early morning show of ‘Into the Woods’, the latest Disney offering. A nice change from the regular run of the mill fairy tales the giant churned out. She loved Johnny Depp. Next she had window shopped for another hour or so before she had seen a dress that was too beautiful to pass. Being a designer herself she liked to have simple but chic clothes. And that ivory knee length dress in silk, satin and lace was just the thing. It was absolutely gorgeous. She had then had a light lunch of soup and salad, then dived into a hot chocolate mousse. It was the holidays right. She had even bought a loaf of bread and given it to a woman who held a sign outside the restaurant which said ‘Homeless, two children, need help. Anything would be appreciated’. And when the woman had wished her a Merry Christmas and thanked her, Riky had seen the smile on her face. She had heard the gratitude in her voice. And it had made her feel happy. Satisfied. She had done something good. Something worthwhile. She had grasped the meaning behind the sentiment of sharing. Tilak’s words had done rounds in her head about having enough to be able to share. Riky had smiled and she had felt a lightness in her step. Maybe when she returned she could do something like this on a regular basis. Use a part of her money and connections to do something good for those who weren’t as fortunate. She had never thought of it before but she now knew, that it would be something that would make her feel as if she had done something constructive.

She had called Tilak right after the movie and he had told her he was tied up during breakfast and lunch but maybe he could meet her for a cup of coffee around two. Riky had felt a jolt of disappointment at his words but she had hidden it. Telling him she was fine with it. The man was here for some work too. He needed to get that done. He had after all spent an entire day and evening with her already. Over the hours she had done other things and her disappointment had faded. Now she sat in the coffee shop waiting for him to come. There was a strange restlessness along with excitement. Why did she feel that way? She realized she had wanted to see him again. Talk to him. And it wasn’t just to ease her loneliness or pain. Because she genuinely liked the man. Any other time it would have made her run, in the opposite direction and all because of what she had endured. But not this time. She was looking forward to seeing him this time. Hopefully, she hadn’t bored him enough yesterday for him to make an excuse and not come at all. As she mused she didn’t hear the man come and sit next to her.

“Thinking about me princess,” she heard the all too familiar voice.

And her heart skipped a beat. Riky turned her head away from the window to look at him. She felt his warmth envelope her immediately. His smile made her lips broaden with one of her own. He seemed more handsome today. And she found herself feeling like she had just found her favorite candy at a store. A sudden happiness burst inside her. She hadn’t realized how much she had missed him. It didn’t make sense. But life rarely did and emotions were even rarer. He was here before her and that was all that mattered.

“Maybe,” Riky replied with a teasing smile.

And Tilak chuckled.

“You are getting better day by day sweetheart,” he told her, “what? No coffee?” he asked.

“I thought we could order together,” she said and shrugged.

“No problem,” Tilak said with a smile, “what would you like?” he asked.

“No way, you tell me what you like and I will get it,” she told him firmly, “I invited you for coffee I get to pay,” she said and crossed her arms over her chest.

“Very well,” Tilak said without even trying to argue with her, “I will have a regular cappuccino and maybe a chocolate mousse,” he told her.

Riky smiled and took out her wallet from her purse.

“I will be right back,” she said and rose to go get the orders.

While she waited for her order of one cappuccino, one hazelnut macchiato, one chocolate mousse and a banana walnut bread slice she looked back at the man who sat by their window table. He was wearing a dark green turtle neck sweater and a brown suede jacket with casual beige trousers. His hair neatly combed. He seemed to be studying the small display menu on the table. She felt elevated to the land of happiness with him being here. She hadn’t had a bad day but she had missed his charming company. And the second he had arrived her excitement had shot up. Was this just friendship? The term she had safely given their association just this morning. Or was it developing into something else? If it was, it was going at a lightning speed. If it wasn’t then why the hell she felt the way she did?

“Ma’am your order,” she heard the tall man call out to her from behind the counter.

Thanking him Riky carried the tray with her to the table.

“Here you go,” she said as she placed Tilak’s coffee and pastry before him. Then sat on her chair and placed her own coffee and bread on the table before putting the tray on the side.

“So what did you do today?” Tilak asked casually as he stirred sugar in his coffee.

Riky told him all about her day. From breakfast to movie to shopping to having lunch. She refrained from telling him about the little sharing she had done. She could have. But she didn’t want to. She had done it because she had felt like it. And not because of anything else.

“You have been busy, princess,” Tilak said smiling at her as he took a sip of his coffee.

“How was your day?” Riky asked casually.

“Good, not all that productive,” he told her then as if he hadn’t wanted to but decided to tell her anyway, “I was with my mother actually,” he informed.

“Your mother?” Riky said in surprise, “But doesn’t she stay in California?” she asked.

“Yes, but she is visiting too,” he said with a faint smile, “in fact I hadn’t wanted to travel at this time of the year but she kind of ordered me…politely,” he said and looked at her.

“How do you order politely,” Riky said and wiggled her eyebrows in mirth.

“You get the drift, she didn’t give me an option,” he said and sighed, “but I am glad she did, because I wouldn’t have met you otherwise,” he said and winked at her.

Riky felt color rush to her face. How long had it been since she had blushed? Very long. Damn, she didn’t even remember the last time she had felt shy or blushed. It was a strange feeling. And she hoped he didn’t notice. She quickly took a hasty sip of her coffee.

“How is she doing?” Riky asked trying to keep her tone as casual as possible.

“Good,” Tilak replied, “we had our usual argument over her moving to New York with me,” he said with a half-smile.

“Why doesn’t she?” Riky asked curiously.

“Too cold,” he told her and shook his head.

“Well, she has a point,” Riky replied with a smile.

“Yeah,” he agreed then smiled, “anyway, so what is your plan for the evening,” he asked.

“There is a bachelorette party tonight,” she said on a sigh, “at Hyatt, I think, I will have to recheck, remember I told you I was here for a wedding,” she said reminding him of why she was in the city.

“Oh yeah,” Tilak said with a slight frown.

And Riky wasn’t sure what it meant. His frown. She looked curiously at him.

“Are you okay?” she asked.

“Sure,” Tilak said quickly masking his expression.

“You didn’t look okay a minute ago,” she told him, “you looked… worried,” she said slowly.

“I am,” he said then at the slight firmness of her mouth he smiled, “I was wondering how you would travel,” he said lightly.

“I arranged for a cab,” she told him still searching his face for any sign of dishonesty. She was sure that wasn’t why he had had that frown. What was it? The nagging feeling of something not being right returned.

“What are you wearing?” he asked deftly changing the topic.

Not really because they were still on the same subject but a different aspect. Should she pursue her instinct and ask him outright exactly what was worrying him? Or should she let the topic drop? She decided to go for the second option. She didn’t want to sound paranoid or overly suspicious.

“Well, since it is just a bachelorette party for the bride I had decided on a long dress which was ankle length but now I will wear the dress I bought today,” she said and smiled broadly, “I have the perfect piece of jewelry and sandals to go with it. There won’t be a soul tonight who would hold a candle to me,” she said proudly. Confidently.

“Wow, I am sure you would look phenomenal,” he said with a broad smile, “wish I could be there too,” he told her.

“You could be,” Riky said on an impulse, “you could come as a friend, I am sure no one will mind an extra guest,” she said hoping he would say yes.

“I would love to princess, but I have other engagements tonight,” he told her a bit hastily.

It was a lie. And he knew it. She did too. Or maybe she didn’t. But she definitely suspected it. She was a smart girl. A very sharp girl. She had already caught his discomfort twice, now. Last night and just now. If he told her the truth how will she react? She may have started to trust him but it was still very fragile. Almost in its nascent stage. And if for any reason that trust broke, he wasn’t sure what she would do. What would he do for that matter? If she got hurt because of him what would he do? And she would. There was no way out of it now. And he knew it, especially because he had unthinkingly gotten into this strange association with her, which was fast growing into something bigger. How had they arrived at this stage? He was responsible. Who else could he blame? She hadn’t asked him to come meet her, take her out, ask her for trust. He had done all of that, all on his own. What he should have done was… stay away. Meet her like any normal person in another setting. Only he hadn’t. He couldn’t see her breaking apart because of someone else’s actions. And that was exactly what had been happening to her. He could already see the difference in her. She was more confident. More willing to move on and be more the way she had been before. She had said she had sworn off men and yet she had believed him. Put her faith in him that he would not let her fall. He hadn’t. But when she will find out she had been lied to….he resisted the urge to close his eyes. Hadn’t he debated the same thing all of last night after dropping her. He had been angry with himself. Worried over her. Frustration had been a constant companion. It had been so difficult to say no to her when she had called him this morning. He shouldn’t have met her at all. He should have resisted but he couldn’t. This pull towards her was way too strong for him to resist. The greed to see her. To hear her voice again. To spend any time with her had increased tenfold since last night. He was getting squished between his own greed and guilt.

“I understand,” Riky said trying to keep her voice as casual as possible.

For a second as the idea had formed in her head she had felt excitement snake up her spine. If he went with her she wouldn’t have to go alone. She won’t feel awkward at the party. She will have someone she could talk to. Be with. She could spend more time with him that way. Something she had been wanting to do. But his quick decline had dampened her spirits. Disappointment had once again taken over. And a strange restlessness too. She wasn’t sure why was that. But she was beginning to want to be in his company more. Know everything about him. What made him laugh, what made him smile, even cry. His likes. Dislikes. It didn’t make sense. Since she had met him a lot of things didn’t make sense. But then some did. And they were the important ones. Only she couldn’t tell him that. What would he make of it? She was still recovering from a broken relationship and she had befriended a complete stranger then she wanted to see if that casual friendship could be developed into something more substantial. And all because she felt a connection. He would call her a first grade lunatic and run in the opposite direction. The fact was that in all her years of getting into relationships that were all wrong for her this was the first time she felt the rightness of it. First time she wanted to take it forward. Previously she had always been pursued, for her money, status and looks. All the men in her life who had claimed to love her had been pursuers, seekers of more profit through her. But that wasn’t the case with Tilak. And that made all the difference. She truly felt calm and herself around him. She had wanted to sigh but she couldn’t and it had been so hard to keep her tone casual. She hoped she had managed it.

“Hey…Riky,” Tilak said slowly, “I would love to accompany you, but I really am tied up tonight and all of tomorrow as well,” he stated, “but I can definitely see you on Christmas day. What do you say? We make it a date,” he suggested. It was hope against hope that all would still remain the same between them.

Riky thought about it. She left on twenty sixth morning. She could easily spend twenty fifth with him. And he had called it a ‘date’. That part alone excited her. A strange feeling unfurled in the pit of her stomach. The idea of spending an entire day with him, again, appealed to her at so many levels that for a second she felt her mind reel with the effect. She didn’t know how she would survive tonight’s event and then the wedding tomorrow but she had something exciting to look forward to in the immediate future and it did take the edge off her.

“Sure,” she agreed with an extra bit of enthusiasm than was required, “I leave early twenty sixth morning so…I guess I have some extra time on hand I can spare,” she said and tilted her chin at an angle. But she was smiling. And Tilak smiled too. Broadly. Whatever anxiety or worry had gripped him was gone.

“Great,” Tilak said as he finished his coffee, “I will make it the best Christmas day of your life, I promise,” he told her and placed a warm hand on hers across the table.

For a second Riky was taken aback. But at the warm reassurance she felt in the gentle squeeze his hand gave hers, she felt better.

“All right, Mr. Gandhi,” Riky said with a smile, “it is a date,” she told him confidently, “now, let’s see what you can do to make this Christmas the best day of my life,” she said and raised an eyebrow throwing an open challenge at him.

“Ah, now how can I resist a challenge from someone as beautiful as you,” he said leisurely, “will really have to work on this one,” he told her and winked.

Riky laughed lightly. Her voice full of mirth and happiness.

As both Tilak and Riky put the gears in motion, they didn’t realize that there was a lot that could happen between now and the proposed time of the date. Would Christmas day really turn out to be the best day of Riky’s life? Only time will tell.

                                                                   Xxxxxxxxxxxxx

(To be contd.)

All credits goes to original writer- Apopinion.

Note: If anyone have any problem with posting this story on this platform , then please do comment.I will do that :)

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