Harmony

Chapter:1

“Hurry up Sunita, everyone is already at the breakfast table” said the

legendary Rashmi Kumari Rajput, wife of one of the most influential
National Leader of Lok Kalyan party (LPK) and member of Lok Sabha,
Vijay Singh Rajput. “Ji ma”

Sunita’s words trembled as she knew how punctual and strict her in-laws
were and every moment she spent in this house was terrifying after the
death of her husband Suhas, who was killed by dismantling his car brakes.

She gulped her fear and walked out, followed by an army of servants who
handed her the tray of parathas as she served her father-in-law who sat at
the head chair. He nodded in acknowledgement as he looked at his wife
who occupied the chair next to him asking “Where is Soham?”

Rashmi looked at Sunita who bit her lips and looked down and shook her
head as she answered her authoratative husband “He is not feeling well, so
resting”

Vijay Singh looked up and pushed his breakfast plate furiously looking at
Sunita and then at his wife saying “Tell that rascal, next time he enters my
house drunk, I will myself shoot him” and walked out followed by his
personal assistant cum advisor cum friend Sachdev. He released his breath
as he sat in his car and was driven to his office as Sachdev looked back and
pitied his friend as he said “Calm down, Soham will come through”

“When Sachdev, when? Here I am trying my best to settle him by making

him Minister of Tourism and look what he is doing, if media catches him in
this state he will be screwed and along with him all of us” said Vijay Singh
as he released a deep breath.

They reached the party office located at Jalori Gate, Jodhpur, as his
personal secretary walked inside his cabin with a bundle of papers to be
signed as Vijay Singh looked up and ordered “Don’t disturb me for the day
and send Sachdev in” The secretary nodded “Ji” and left with his head
hanging down.

“You called?” Sachdev asked as he entered the cabin and Vijay Singh
nodded as he gestured him to sit and said “Sachdev, I have been thinking
something and I want your opinion”

Sachdev looked at him and smiled. Vijay Singh rolled his parker as he
looked at Sachdev and said “I want to see Shivaay as the next CM of
Rajasthan”

The sentence immediately brought a wide smile on Sachdev’s face as

Shivaay was his undisputed favorite child. Though he was fond of all the
three boys of Vijay Singh but somehow Shivaay stole the first place. He
was always the favored child as being the youngest he didn’t have much
responsibilities and was the pampered one with a golden heart.

“You stole my thought Vijay” he said and Vijay Singh nodded and smiled
thinking of his youngest son Shivaay.

He had always dreamt of his eldest son Suhas to take over his place in
politics and had given the liberty to his next two sons to do whatever they
chose to. Soham was the spoilt one as all he was ever interested was in
quick name and fame, though he never lacked in either of the department as
he was born with a golden spoon.

The youngest Shivaay was the ambitious one who was the alumnus of Doon
School and had opted to study Law at the prestigious Oxford University in
UK. He was in his final year when the news of Suhas’s car crash had
scattered all their dreams and Vijay Singh had ordered him to return back
home and give up on his dreams.

He had tried getting Soham interested in politics but he was just not into it
and hence had fulfilled his dream by making Shivaay the youngest and the
most influential youth leader and later he had proved himself by being the
elected member of the Vidhan Sabha. He was the favorite amongst the
youth of Rajasthan and his persona demanded attention everywhere he
went.

“Have you spoken to Shivaay about it?” asked Sachdev as he looked at

Vijay Singh who was lost in his dreams.

“Not yet” he answered and picked up his phone ordering his secretary to put
him through Shivaay.

The doors of the Rajasthan Vidhan Sabha opened as the first one to walk
out with his dynamic personality was Shivaay Singh Rajput whose chin
lead his body and every eye present followed him as he sat in his SUV and
nodded to his driver to start when his phone rang. He looked at the caller ID
saying “Pranaam papa”

“Shivaay? When are you getting back to Jodhpur?” asked Vijay Singh

“Today evening” he answered and heard the “Hmm” of his father as the call
was disconnected.

He inhaled as he closed his eyes and rested his head back thinking of how
life had changed for him. Three years, just three years and here he was
doing something which he never ever wanted to get into. He had grown up
in a political family and knew the pros and cons and had opted out to make
his life as a lawyer in the UK. He always wanted a normal life, away from
the limelight but destiny had some other plans for him.

He opened his eyes as he looked around the deserted roads and pushed his
thick black hair away from his forehead massaging his temple and sighed as
he thought of his brother Suhas, who was more than eager to get into
politics and follow their father’s footsteps. A smile crept up his face as he
remembered how he always covered up for him, protecting him from the
parent.

Suhas had visited UK along with his wife Sunita on their way back from
their honeymoon and they had spent a good time together.
That was the last time Shivaay had met him and it exactly three months
later that he had got the devastating news of his brother’s untimely death.

His chain of thoughts was broken as the car halted and he entered the grand
ancestral bungalow and the keepers greeted him bowing their heads as he
nodded in acknowledgement and walked inside the colossal living room.

His eyes caught the dormant figure sitting on the couch as he sat across him
calling “Soham?”

“Huh” he looked up with his puffed face and sarcastically smiled saying
“Ah, the apple of the eye, nah the apple of the family, is here” and Shivaay
looked at him pitifully and bit his lips as he asked “how are you?”

“How can I be brother, huh” he said and chuckled saying “It’s like asking a
dying man if he wants to die” and started laughing when Shivaay frowned
as he controlled his anger saying “Stop it Soham, get a hold”

“Hold hi toh nahi hain” Soham commented and continued “Hold hi toh nahi
hain, mere bhai. We are all puppets in that man’s hands, he orders me to
marry his eldest son’s widow and I do so, he orders you to get into politics
and you do so” saying he laughs and Shivaay exhales as he gets up giving
up and walks towards the spiral stairways as he looks as Sunita who had
overheard Soham.

He smiled at her and she smiled back sadly and Shivaay felt terrible for the
young lady knowing how happy once she was when he had met her in UK
and how her life had turned drastically after his eldest brother’s death.

He entered his room throwing his laptop bag on the bed and rolled his neck
as the exhaustion of the past few days released. He stood under the hot
shower thinking of his upcoming events and wondered why his father had
called him, which was very unlike him.

Chapter: 2
Shivaay walked down wearing track pants and sweatshirt as Rashmi looked
at her handsome son and smiled. He walked to her and hugged her kissing
her forehead as Vijay Singh looked at the mother and son.

Shivaay looked at him and nodded as he sat opposite his mother and waited
for Soham to join them.

As always Soham sat at the other end of the table proving time and again
how he had distanced himself from everyone. Sunita walked out of the
kitchen and started serving, as a rule she sat alone for dinner after all the
other members had finished.

Shivaay had seen this right from his childhood remembering how often he
had pulled his ma’s hands requesting her to join them on the table but his
grandmother’s stern look had kept her away. It was after his grandparents
that Rashmi sat along with the family to eat.

He dismissed the thoughts and started eating when Vijay Singh looked at
his youngest son with a proud smile saying “Sanjeev Rathod had called and
he was highly impressed with you. You did well in the assembly yesterday,
I heard.”

Shivaay chewed his morsel and looked at his father not giving out any
emotions when Rashmi intervened saying “Shivaay had to win the
argument, after all” and Vijay Singh nodded agreeing with his wife.

He knew his youngest son was an adamant man and his arguments gave no
scope to anyone and that he would prove his point hook or by crook making
him a fine politician. He had inherited his oratory skills and Vijay Singh
was immensely proud of it. When they started speaking, people heard.

Once they were done, he ordered both his sons to join him in his study
while Rashmi waited as usual for Sunita to sit for her dinner. She was a
kind lady but didn’t have the guts to overrule the rules laid by the Rajput
family.
At times, she pitied her and knew Soham had still not accepted her as his
wife as they were forced to marry her with Soham when Sunita’s parents
disagreed to take their daughter back to their place after Suhas’s death.

Sunita sat next to Rashmi as the servants served her and she started eating
quietly when Raskmi asked “Did you take Soham to the doctor?” and
Sunita looked at her mother in law answering “Ji”

“And?”

“He said the medicines will take time to work” Sunita replied and Rashmi
nodded her head praying the doctor was right and hopefully her son would
be cured of his dependency to alcohol.

They spoke about general things as they finally retired to their rooms when
Sunita looked around wondering about her life.

She was a simple college going girl in her final year when her parents had
received Suhas’s proposal. She was on cloud nine as he was a perfect
partner to her and how life had come to a standstill when her very own
parents had refused to shelter her as they knew on their refusal the Rajput’s
would get their next son married to her as having a young widow at home
was not safe.

In the world of politicians even your own blood betrays you at times, no, at
all times she thought and sat on the couch overlooking the window as she
stared at the moon.

In the study, Vijay Singh looked as his boys who sat opposite to him and
said “I have decided something” and Soham gave out a chuckle making
Vijay Singh furious. He was about to yell when Shivaay’s voice intervened
asking “What have you decided papa?”

Vijay Singh glared at Soham and turned his complete attention to Shivaay
declaring “Next election our party will win the majority and I have no doubt
in that.” He said and continued looking at Shivaay “I am going to propose
your name for the next CM of Rajasthan”
Soham looked at his father and then at his brother saying “CM?”

“Yes, I and my people have full confidence in you Shivaay and we know
you can and will prove your credentials” Shivaay looked at his father and
nodded not giving out any emotions when Soham joked around saying
“Yeah now CM later PM”

“Shut up Soham” Vijay Singh whispered as he said pointing at him “And

you, better prove your worth as a Minister of Tourism. Nobody wants a
drunkard minister, understood” and Soham stared at him and got up
aggressively saying “I never asked you to make me one”

“Be thankful I made you one. Anyways you’re good for nothing” Vijay
Singh said as Soham gave him a stern look and walked out.

Shivaay sat looking at them as he was used to this scenario as initially he

had tried resolving their conflicts but was all in vain. He had learnt to
overlook certain matters in his life and he was succeeding.

“Your only strong competitor will be Bhairav Singh Sukhawat from

Banswara and he will leave no stones unturned to be elected” Vijay Singh
said and Shivaay gave out a small smile saying “I will make sure there no
stones for him to turn” and walked out.

Vijay Singh looked as Shivaay walked out feeling immensely proud of his
confidence and knew Shivaay was the one. He could picture him and knew
he would make a great CM one day, which according to him was not very
far.

The next day, Vijay Singh along with Sachdev were discussing on some
issues when Shivaay joined them. Sachdev looked at Shivaay as he greeted
them and said “Shivaay I have no doubts in you becoming our next CM,
just a little hindrance my boy”

Shivaay looked at him creasing his brows as Vijay Singh asked “What
hindrance Sachdev?”
“Wife?”

“What?” Shivaay asked

“People like seeing their CM as a well settled family man” and both the
senior men grinned as Shivaay looked at them.

Chapter: 3

As the Sun rose slowly into the dull morning sky casting sunbeams in every
direction, the sunshine of Bansal household jogged her way into the living
room with her fresh, energetic melodious voice greeting “Good Morning”
as Ajay Bansal looked at his youngest daughter with a smile greeting back
“Good Morning Vaami, you’re late today”

“Yes papa” she bent holding her knees as she tried catching her breath and
said “Was working till late night on that paisley design”

“Huh” Ajay nodded looking at her as he smiled gesturing her to sit next to
him and he said “Good. I will ask Babubhai to get the cast ready for your
design”

“But don’t you want to see it papa?” she asked

“I trust you and your talent, my girl” he said proudly as he knew

confidently whatever she did, she did it with all her heart.

Jewellery designing was Vaami’s passion and after her graduation she had
urged him to allow her to complete her gemology designing degree from
New York. The entire family was against his decision for allowing her to go
and pursue her dream but he was sure she would make him proud and she
did that when she won the youngest designer award for the Jewellery Show
Inc.
Ajay Bansal was the founder and director of the famous Bansal Jewels,
which were into exporting of diamonds and jewellery worldwide.

He was a humble self-made man who had gained it all the hard way bearing
all the struggles. His wife Rachna Bansal was the backbone of the family
who made sure both his daughters were firmly rooted to the ground though
born in the lap of luxury.

Ruchi was the eldest one who was like her mother, married to Suchay Vora,
a diamond merchant residing in Antwerp and the youngest Vaami was the
complete replica of her father, who spoke her mind fearlessly.

Rachna watched the father daughter chit chatting when she smiled carrying
a tray of juices as she greeted them and sat opposite them looking at her
husband saying “I hope you remember, the Sheths are coming over tonight
for dinner and Vaami” she said turning her gaze towards her with a warning
tone saying “Please try being a little mellow. Sahil is a good boy and I feel
you both with make a good pair”

Vaami nodded her head saying “Yes ma, I will” and added “But, I can’t
always agree to what the boy wants”

“Don’t agree but at least be a little considerate”

“I am and that is the reason I agree on meeting any boy you want me to”
she said sweetly and walked away.

Rachna exhaled as she looked at her youngest daughter and Ajay grinned as
he knew what was coming next.

Vaami had easily agreed to meeting any good proposals that came for her
but every time she met the boy there was something or the other she found
missing.

All she explained was “It didn’t click” and Rachna failed to understand
what was it that she wanted to click and would hope and pray for the
clicking to happen fast.

Getting her eldest married was a cake walk as Suchay was the first one
Ruchi had met and the week after they were engaged. But, with Vaami it
seemed like a hurricane task.

Vaami walked inside her room towards her table feeling contended holding
the designing papers she had worked hard for the entire last night and
couldn’t wait to hold the actual piece in her hand. She traced her hand on
the fine details as her phone rang and she looked at the caller ID and
smiled.

“Good Morning bestie”

“Good Morning Vaamu, what plans for today?” Radhika asked and Vaami
chuckled as it was a non-written rule for both of them to call each other
every morning and ask the same question since the time they were allowed
to make calls independently. They were neighbors and had attended the
same school and college and were both prospective brides to be in search of
their prince charming.

“Day toh no plans Radhu but night again the same thing” Vaami answered

“Huh, all the best” Radhika said and both spoke for a bit before hanging up.

The day passed off as Vaami visited the Bansal’s office handing over the
design and mingled with everyone as she knocked and entered her papa’s
cabin.

She saw her papa busy talking to someone and quickly turned her back to
go out saying “Oh, sorry” when Ajay stopped her calling “Vaami, come in
beta” and she smiled as she walked towards him and saw a mid-aged man
smiling at her.

“Vaami, meet Mr. Sanjeev Rathod. He is the member of Vidhan Sabha and
Sanjeevji, meet my daughter Vaami”
“Namaste” she greeted folding her hands and he smiled greeting her back.

“Papa, I have handed my designs and am going to meet Radhika” she said
and took their leave as Ajay nodded getting back to Sanjeev who was
observing Vaami curiously. He asked a few basic questions about her before
taking his leave.

The same evening Vaami met Sahil and Rachna was highly impressed with
him and his family. It was only after all had left that she entered Vaami’s
room and looked at her daughter who was snuggled in bed reading. Vaami
smiled looking at her mama as she closed the book and sat up giving her
space to sit.

“Vaami, how was Sahil?”

“He was good ma” she answered and Rachna smiled as she liked them as a
pair and asked “Would you like to meet him again?”

Vaami looked at her mama who cupped her face saying “I don’t know what
clicking thing you are waiting for Vaami, but trust me he is the best of all
you have met. Please think over it”

“Huh” she said as she too was confused as her head said he was the perfect
one for her but her heart refused. She had read that your heart clicks, it
gives you a signal when you meet the right one, was it true? Does it happen
for real? She was in deep thought debating over her heart and mind when
sleep took over.

The next morning as she jogged she recalled her talks with Sahil, who had
agreed on everything she had to say. He made it sound like a perfect
husband material who loved talking, shopping, outing and movies. Was she
that lucky? She wondered and chuckled to herself as she reached her home
and looked at her parents who smiled at her lovingly.

“Mama, before you ask, yes I would like to meet Sahil again” she informed
and Rachna hugged her beaming happily as Ajay grinned. She had this
transparency with her parents and she knew her opinion mattered.
Chapter: 4

“So how was Sahil?” asked Radhika as she lazed on the bean bag in
Vaami’s room

“Too good to be true” Vaami answered turning towards her friend as she
combed her waist length silky hair.

“Means?” Radhika pouted and asked

“Means, he agreed on everything I said Radhika. It was like our thoughts

were twins”

“That’s good nah then” Radhika asked and Vaami shrugged saying “I don’t
know Radhu, like every time, I am not sure this time as well. He is either
too good to be true or he is faking, I don’t know”

“You’re crazy Vaami. He is like you and I feel you both will make a perfect
pair” Radhika said and Vaami gave out a small smile saying “Maybe” and
fetched her stole as they walked out of her room.

Rachna saw the girls coming down when she smiled saying “Vaami, I have
fixed your meeting with Sahil tonight, infact they have already said a yes”
and Radhika smiled hugging Vaami as she said “Wow, done”

Vaami looked at her and turned to her mama saying “I want to meet him
first mama”

“Ofcourse Vaami, he will pick you up at seven in the evening” and she
nodded as the girls walked towards the car.

In the evening Sahil was at the Bansal house at sharp 6:55 and it impressed
Rachna with whom he sat talking while Vaami got ready.
She greeted him and they left for the coffee house when Vaami asked “So
what work do you do at your dad’s office?”

“I told you, dad made me the director last year and so” he shrugged casually
making Vaami observe him keenly as she asked “Must be nice to get a
readymade title at your service”

“what?” he asked looking at her

“Director at this age is great”

“yeah, it is. Though I hardly attend office. You know Vaami, I have it all
planned. Enjoy life, travel the world, in fact I was thinking of a two-month
long honeymoon visiting the seven wonders of the world” he said trying to
impress her and she sighed looking out of the window when Sahil caught
her hand and she jerked it back as she looked at him sternly.

“Hey chill relax babes, it’s official now” he said casually and Vaami turned
her attention towards him saying “No it’s not”

“What?” he asked as he stopped the car

“It’s not Mr. Sahil Sheth. I don’t want to marry Mr. Nobody who doesn’t
have his own identity whatsoever. So, it’s a NO from me. Goodbye’ she
said as she unlocked the door when Sahil furiously called her saying “How
dare you, it was me who agreed for a nobody like you, girls die to marry
me, understood” he said snapping his fingers when she calmly leaned on the
door and said “Go, get married to one of them, douchebag” and turned to sit
in the taxi waiting nearby.

Ajay and Rachna were about to sit for dinner when they saw Vaami entering
the house. They looked at each other and Ajay got up from his seat asking
“Vaami, you back so early?”

She looked at him and then at her mama as she sat in one of the chairs
announcing “I refused him, mama”
“But why?” Rachna asked frowning as she added “He was so good”
“So good for whom mama?” Vaami asked and Ajay held her hand adding
“What happened Vaami”

“Papa, he is not someone I can respect and for me to marry someone

without respecting is not possible” she explained as her parents waited for
her to complete.

She told them about their talk and finally Vaami looked at her mama saying
“Mama, when you look at papa there are so many emotions in your eyes for
him, love, respect, care, he is someone you look up to because he has
earned it mama, I want the same emotions and I don’t think I can even
respect Sahil forget loving him”

Rachna and Ajay looked at their daughter lovingly as she turned to Ajay
saying “You’ve raised the bar too high Ajay for your daughter” and he
grinned as Vaami smiled looking at them.

They sat for dinner as Rachna informed Vaami about Ruchi’s call as Vaami
asked “Oh, so madam is back from her holidays?”

“Yes, they had a good time. She was remembering you Vaami, call her
tonight”

“Yes mama, I will” she said thinking of her sister whom she missed badly
just then the phone rang and Ajay answered it.

Both Rachna and Vaami looked as Ajay’s expressions changing and knew it
was some important call as they waited for him to hang up.

Back in Jodhpur, Vijay Singh smiled as he looked at his wife Rashmi saying
“Call Shivaay” and she nodded as she dialed his number and asked him to
join them in the living room.

“Ji ma” he said as he sat across them

“Shivaay, Sanjeev Rathod has got a proposal for you and I have checked the
family, they are respectable in Jaipur. Have you heard of Bansal Jewels?”

He nodded saying “Yes I have”

“She is Ajay Bansal’s youngest daughter Vaami Bansal”

“Huh” he said as Rashmi looked at her son saying “Shivaay, we can visit
them on Sunday, if that’s okay with you”

“Ji ma, Sunday is fine” saying he got up as Vijay Singh called Ajay Bansal.

Ajay looked at Rachna and Vaami as he exclaimed “Vijay Singh called”

Both the ladies had a blank expression though they knew he is a politician
but none were aware much about politics when Ajay said “He has asked for
Vaami’s hand for his youngest son Shivaay”

“What?” Vaami and Rachna said in unison as Ajay nodded continuing

“Shivaay himself is a politician and I must say a popular one. He might be
running for CM post soon and Vaami, remember I introduced you to
Sanjeev Rathod?”

“Yes papa”

“He was all praises for that boy”

“But, how old is he papa?” Vaami asked as she always pictured politicians
as oldies

“33, and he would be the youngest CM in the history of India If he were to

be elected” he said as Vaami thought of the age difference dismissing it as it
hardly mattered going by the history where she met men almost her age and
they were no good.
The same night she called Radhika for a sleepover and they both attacked
the internet to get as much as information about Shivaay Singh Rajput and
it thoroughly impressed Vaami as not only was he good looking but had
impressive oratory skills as she heard his interviews.

She later spoke to Ruchi and updated her about the happenings who
initially was apprehensive about getting Vaami married into a political
background but relaxed when she heard Vaami confidently saying “Relax
Ruchi, atleast let me meet him this Sunday, then we will see”

Chapter: 5

The following week was busy as Vijay Singh along with Shivaay traveled
to Delhi to meet his party leaders and played a few trump cards to make
sure their party won with the full majority.

They were on their way back when he looked at Shivaay as he said “It’s
time to start clearing the road Shivaay before I push forward your name for
the post of CM”

Shivaay waited for him to speak more as he knew him too well and Vijay
Singh bit his lips creasing his brows when he said “This girl belongs to the
Bansal Jewels, Shivaay and they have a grand clientele, I hope you’re
understanding”

Shivaay gave out a sarcastic laugh as he looked at his father and knew how
cunning his mind could work but this was something against his ethics as he
clearly in no nonsense tone said “I won’t marry if I don’t like her, Bansal or
no Bansal, I don’t care”

They reached home and joined the family for dinner when Rashmi informed
Soham and Sunita about the Bansals.
Soham looked at Shivaay as he causally commented “Lucky man, atleast
you get to decide whether you want to marry her or not” when all eyes went
on him and then on Sunita who stood still. She bit her lips gulping her pain
when Shivaay who picked up the glass to drink water commented “Not
everyone is lucky as you to get a gem, we have to safe pick ours” and
Soham chuckled as Vijay Singh changed the topic sensing the tension
between the brothers by asking him questions pertaining to his work.

Shivaay excused himself and retired to his room when Vijay Singh turned
towards his wife saying “No need to bother Soham and Sunita to join us
this Sunday. They can meet her on the engagement day itself” and Sunita
looked at him feeling hurt.

Soham was least bothered as he walked away leaving Sunita and Rashmi
alone when Rashmi held Sunita’s hand saying “It’s okay. Knowing Shivaay,
he will take time before deciding, you know how he is”

“I know ma, it’s okay” she said with a smile as she sat for her dinner.
Rashmi sat next to her talking about general things as Sunita curiously
asked her about the proposal.

Back at the Bansal house, there was a commotion of close relatives as half
of them were against Vaami getting married into a political family and half
of them were over excited as they would be meeting a political leader in
real and after Ajay informing them about Shivaay the younger generation
couldn’t wait to meet him as he was famous amongst the youth.

Vaami enjoyed hearing the fears and anticipations of her relatives when
Radhika looked at her saying “Are you mad, people are scaring you and
you are enjoying yourself”

Vaami looked at her as she said “I am enjoying their concerns Radhu and as
for actually marrying him, I too don’t know he might be just another one for
me, I might not “click” with him” she said as they both laughed.

It was finally Sunday as the Bansals were all set to welcome the Rajputs.
They were informed it would only be three of them coming and Ajay too
decided not to involve any extended family at the moment. He wanted it to
be close knit as well.

Rachna paced the kitchen ordering the cooks and Vaami dressed herself in a
simple yellow kurta with a bandhej duppata when she joined her parents in
the living room.

She was completely against the idea of a girl walking in later serving tea, it
sounded too filmy to her and also, she wouldn’t do anything she wasn’t
comfortable with, which even her parents respected.

She saw two cars stopping in near the foyer and the driver walked out as he
held the door of the first one when a lady of almost her mama’s age stepped
out wearing a blue chiffon saree and pearls around her neck and from the
other end was a man almost her papa’s age with a little heavy built walked
towards his wife’s side.

The second car’s passenger door opened as she saw Shivaay stepping out.
He looked far more handsome in real than he did on the screen.

She followed her parents who welcomed them and Ajay introduced Rachna
and Vaami to them. She politely joined her hands greeting the elders and
smiled as Shivaay was introduced.

They walked in and were seated in the living room as the helpers served
them mocktails and Vaami observed Shivaay who was busy talking to her
papa. Both the mothers were busy chatting as she looked around when
Shivaay’s eyes caught her attention. He had a strong silent persona with
deep eyes that spoke volume and was handsome in his own way.

He turned his attention to the men talking when Rashmi called Vaami and
spoke to her about a few general things. She informed her about Soham and
Sunita and Vaami wondered why they didn’t join them today.

Vaami learnt from her talks that women in their household were homebound
and that made her a bit apprehensive as just then Ajay called Vaami saying
“Vaami, why don’t you show Shivaay around”
She smiled and nodded as Shivaay got up following her. He was tall and
lean with broad shoulders she observed as she led the way towards the
garden.

They reached the canopy when Vaami turned around to look at Shivaay and
he grinned as he gestured her to sit.

“You’ve been observing me a lot” Shivaay commented as it took Vaami by

surprise as she wondered was she so obvious

“Huh, no I was just” she tried saying when he chuckled and Vaami smiled
as she commented “You don’t look like a politician”

“Really” he said and continued “And how does a politician look according
to you”

“You know” she said shrugging her shoulders and he looked at her hiding
his smirk as he said “huh” and she continued “Big bellies, loud
personalities, dressed in whites or kurta jacket you know kinds” and
Shivaay laughed out loud. She stared at him and was mesmerized at his
hearty laugh when he sobered and looked at her saying “In that case I take it
as a compliment”

Vaami smiled as he looked around and both sat in silence when he finally
asked “Don’t you have any questions?”

“Yes, no I mean I don’t know anything about politics and I really don’t
know what to ask” she struggled to say as talking to him was so unlike
talking to the other men she met who were completely of themselves ready
to blow their own trumpet that she automatically had a lot of questions for
them. But here, Shivaay sounded so genuine and his personality
overpowered her senses that she was blank, completely blank.

He got up leaning on the fence which was nearby to their canopy and turned
giving her the complete attention saying “Vaami, I would like to be honest
with you if in case this works, I don’t want you to have any illusions. I am
deeply involved in politics which takes almost all my time and in case I
were to be a proposed CM candidate it would be worse. I would have no
time for anything else. Nor am I a romantic person nor do I think I can
actually fit the perfect husband role, you know” he tried explaining when
Vaami too got up and walked to him as she said “Perfect husband and
Perfect wife is a myth and yes, I am a romantic person by heart but I believe
the definition of romance is different in every individual’s dictionary. For
me it would mean spending good quality time with each other, whatever
little it maybe. I am not a rose and candle light kind of a person”

He smiled at her honesty when they saw their mother’s walking towards
them and he asked “So, would you like to be a politician’s wife?”

She looked at him not expecting him to ask so directly when Rashmi called
out Shivaay and he stared at Vaami for mere seconds before joining his
mother and Rachna came and stood near Vaami. She looked at her daughter
who was in her deep thoughts when she held her arm saying “Come they
are leaving” and she simply nodded following her mama inside.

Ajay and Rachna along with the senior Rajputs walked ahead to their car
bidding them bye when Vaami joined Shivaay who was waiting for her near
the foyer nodded whispering bye as he was about to sit in his car when
Vaami softly called “Shivaay” and he looked up and she smiled saying
“Yes” bringing a wide smile on Shivaay’s face.

Chapter: 6

Ajay, Rachna and Vaami sat in the living room as the staff cleared the
tables. Ajay looked at Vaami who had an involuntary smile plastered on her
face and knew what her answer would be. He too had liked Shivaay, he was
a matured and composed man but getting his daughter to be a part of the
politician’s family somehow unnerved him.
Rachna looked at both the father daughter who were engrossed in their
thoughts, clicked her tongue grabbing their attention as she declared “I
don’t think we should go ahead with this”

Vaami looked at her dismayed and Ajay observed her expression as he

asked “What do you feel Vaami?”

“Papa, I like him” she said bluntly

“Huh, but do you realize it’s going to different to be married in their

family?” Ajay argued when Rachna looked at him accusingly saying “I had
told you, don’t encourage this proposal but you never agreed. You should
have refused in the first place itself Ajay”

“I couldn’t Rachna, understand. Sanjeev Rathod is a good friend atleast

meeting them was something I owed him, but we can still refuse there is no
compulsion”

Vaami watched her parents argue and she bit her lips as she finally said “I
like Shivaay papa and I want to marry him”

“What?” Rachna daunted

“Yes ma, I like him and would like to marry him”

Ajay was amazed at his daughter. He had never seen her this sure as he
asked “What makes you so sure Vaami, that he is the one?”

“He was genuine papa, no pretense and very straight forwardly he told me
things I should know”

“Huh” he hummed as he was thinking when Rachna shook her head saying
“Vaami, he is good okay but what about his family. His mother was fine but
somehow his father somehow” she tried framing the right sentence when
Ajay added “Vijay Singh is a very shrewd politician and he is famous for it.
It won’t be easy living under the same roof with him Vaami, he is
conservative please understand that, you have always been free to do things
here beta, but it won’t be the case there”

“I understand papa, let me sleep on this, will think over it” and they
dispersed as Vaami headed towards her room.

The entire night she tossed and turned her mind recalling her talks with
Shivaay and going back to her parents. She knew Shivaay was different and
her heart and mind both were convinced he was the one and somehow it
‘clicked’ she thought to herself as she picked up her phone calling Radhika
and updating her about her meeting with Shivaay.

Vijay Singh and Rashmi entered the Rajput Mansion followed by Shivaay
when Rashmi warmly said “I liked Vaami, she is really pretty”

“Huh” Vijay Singh added “They have good contacts and I think this
alliance would do good for Shivaay”

Shivaay groaned at his mentality when Rashmi asked “What do you think
Shivaay?”

“She was good” was all he said and left. His mind occupied with her
thoughts and he liked the idea of her being different and straight forward.

Rashmi updated about Vaami to Sunita who was happy for Shivaay when
they saw Sachdev entering the study to meet Vijay Singh.

The next day, Vijay Singh ordered for a thorough check about Bansals as he
did not want any hindrances and called Sanjeev Rathod. On the other hand,
Shivaay got busy with his so-called movement ‘Youth Matters” and was
busy with his strategical planning as this movement was his first baby.

He thoroughly investigated in the working of it and made sure the funds

were spent effectively. He traveled to the interior parts of Rajasthan
educating the youth about their rights and guiding them about the careers.
Farming was one thing he pushed the youngsters to study about and funded
the educational cost making Rajasthan as the most productive state for
Quinoa farming using nanotechnologies.

He got back to Jodhpur after three days when Rashmi informed him about
the Bansals. She looked at him lovingly as she handed him a chit on which
a number was scribbled.

“Talk to her, she has something to ask” she said as he frowned when she
added “I spoke to Rachnaji and she was a little apprehensive but said her
daughter was sure and she wanted to speak to you before making it official”

Shivaay nodded and headed to his room as he kept the chit under his mobile
and he showered. He stood under the shower as the exhaustion drained out
and he stretched himself. He dressed himself in his white kurta and pajamas
when he noticed the chit lying on the table. He smiled remembering Vaami
and picked up his mobile to call her.

At the Bansal House, Ruchi had paid a surprise visit and Vaami was busy
catching up with her sister who along with her parents was trying their best
to convince Vaami.

“Okay tell me Ruchi why shouldn’t I marry him, other than he been a
politician?” she asked Ruchi and her mama, who sat on her bed as she
paced her room trying to convince them that Shivaay was the one for her.

“First of all, he is eight years elder to you” Ruchi stated and Vaami
shrugged answering “So is papa eight years elder to mama, but they are
happy”

“You don’t even know him Vaami” Ruchi argued

“So didn’t you when you said a yes to Suchay bhai” she argued back and
Ruchi sighed as Rachna looked at her daughters when Ruchi added “He is a
politician Vaami, understand they are not” she said trying to find the right
word and she blurted out “good”
“Who said all politicians are bad? And who said all businessmen are good?
Huh?” she argued and Ruchi exhaled as she gestured her mama saying “She
is convinced ma and now nothing can be done”

“This is not love marriage Vaami that you are taking his side so much, you
have just met him once, how can you be so sure?” Rachna asked

“Mama, it clicked” she announced and chuckled as both Rachna and Ruchi
stared at her blankly and departed her room.

She smiled as she too wondered why was she arguing with everyone when
she hardly knew Shivaay. What was it that was pulling her towards him?
She was lost in her thought when her mobile rang.

Chapter: 7

“Hello” she answered wondering who was it?

“Vaami?” Shivaay asked

“Yes, who is this?”

“Shivaay” he said with a smile as Vaami relaxed and sat on her bed
comfortably folding her legs.

“Hi Shivaay” she greeted with a smile and he chuckled at the change of her
tone as he added “Hello Vaami. You wanted to talk?”

“Yes, I did. Actually, I had a few questions Shivaay” she said

apprehensively and he quickly responded saying “Sure, go ahead”

“Ah, Shivaay would you mind if I continued my designing career, I mean I

do it from home itself but still”
“Sure, you can. Infact why are you even asking me? Vaami, I want a wife, a
companion and not some employee who comes with some kind of terms
and conditions”

Vaami smiled hearing him and bit her lips as she replied “Thanks, it’s just
that I can’t sit idle”

Shivaay smiled hearing her mumble and added “I wouldn’t want you to sit
idle”

They were quiet for a while as Shivaay broke the silence asking “So, what
else did you want to ask?”

“something about your family” she asked and he sighed as he answered

“You have met my ma and papa, right?”

“Yes”

“Other than them, it’s my elder brother Soham and his wife Sunita”

“Okay” she said and Shivaay continued “Vaami, ours is a conservative

family, and from what I understand it might be a little different from what
yours is but all I can say is I will support and be with you if and when need
be” that was something that touched her and she instantly smiled getting up
from her bed and paced the room as they spoke about their education and
friends.

It was almost an hour that Shivaay said “So, anything else?”

“No, not at the moment” she said and Shivaay smiled as they bid each other
good night and hanged up.

Vaami was still pacing her room with a wide grin as she saved Shivaay’s
number and recalled their talks. She was certain she wanted to marry him
and waited for the morning to speak to her parents.
The next morning Vaami walked down to join her family as they gathered
for breakfast when Ajay looked at her lovingly and greeted “Good
morning”

“Morning papa” she greeted back and sat next to him grabbing a toast.

“So, no jogging today?” he quizzed as she nodded her head answering “No
Papa, slept late so couldn’t get up” and he shook his head looking at her as
Ruchi joined them.

Vaami looked at all three of them as she cleared her throat to grab their
attention when she said “I spoke to Shivaay last night” and Ajay raised his
brows looking at her as she continued “I’ve cleared my doubts and am sure
I want to marry him”

Rachna was the first to respond saying “You’ve lost it Vaami, seriously and
it’s all your doing Ajay” she blamed him when he sighed saying “Relax
Rachna, let’s talk this out” and looked at Vaami as he asked “Are you really
sure?”

“Yes, papa I am” and he smiled at her as Ruchi said “It’s infatuation Vaami,
nothing else”

“It’s not Ruchi, I am sure I want to marry him”

“Fine, end of the topic, I will inform Sanjeev Rathod” Ajay declared and
left the table.

Rachna shook her head as Ruchi held her hand and Vaami looked at them
with puppy eyes saying “Please be happy for me” and they smiled seeing
her and all three shared a hug.

Ajay informed Sanjeev Rathod about Vaami’s decision and the message
was happily passed on to the Rajputs. Vijay Singh was over the moon as his
calculative mind started working on the contacts Shivaay could make and
Rashmi was over the moon as she passed on the news to Sunita as they
were preparing for lunch.
Sunita was happy for Shivaay as she asked “So now Tilak?” and Rashmi
nodded saying “Yes, we will invite them here tomorrow for Tilak and
decide about the wedding date”

“Sunita, call the head staff immediately, we will have to plan and prepare
for tomorrow” Rashmi said as she walked towards the study to discuss the
details with her husband.

Rashmi discussed the details with Vijay Singh, who personally invited Ajay
Bansal and his family for the Tilak ceremony the next day.

Shivaay walked into the study when Rashmi smiled and hugged him
conveying her happiness when Vijay Singh looked at Shivaay and grinned
saying “Well done son, I thought you inherited my political boots but I am
happy to see that it’s my social charm as well”

“You’re wrong there, papa. I might be wearing your political boots but
would never fit into your sly ones” and walked away.

The Tilak in Rajputs was a ceremony which marked the official alliance
between both the families. The Rajput House was decorated with garlands
and lights and the chaotic atmosphere of the kitchen made it look absolute
festive.

Soham looked at his wife who was busy making the sweets along with the
domestic help when Rashmi walked towards him and sat opposite him
saying “You should accept her now Soham, it’s high time” and he jerked
back looking at his ma embarrassed.

Rashmi called Sunita who sat across Soham and discussed about the next
evening’s rituals and ordered Soham to behave himself.

The Bansals were all over the place as Ajay and Rachna made preparations
for the ceremony and Ruchi helped Vaami decide upon the dress. The
evening passed with the mehendi artist applying henna on Vaami’s palms
while Ruchi and Radhika danced on the tunes of Bollywood songs.
Chapter: 8

The next evening the Bansals reached Jodhpur and were greeted by Sanjeev
Rathod who escorted them to the Rajput house. The women were impressed
seeing the grand mansion and the army of servants, all dressed in a typical
Rajasthani attire as they welcomed them in their traditional way.

Vijay Singh along with Soham came forward to welcome the Bansals as
Rashmi and Sunita joined them. The Bansals entered after a round of
introduction as Shivaay walked towards them looking dapper in light blue
kurta. He smiled and greeted the Bansals joining the men in general talks.

The rituals began as Vaami sat next to Shivaay and both the families blessed
the couple and Rashmi handed a ring to Shivaay for Vaami.

Though the Rajputs did not have any ring ceremony as part of their tradition
but on Shivaay’s insistence Rashmi agreed. Vaami’s eyes twinkled as she
saw the beautiful carat solitaire that Shivaay made her wear and was
surprised at the gesture.

It was a happy time with both families mingling with each other as finally
Vijay Singh said “Ajayji, as you are aware Shivaay is our party’s next CM
candidate and I would like the wedding to take place before the elections”

Everyone looked at him as Shivaay spoke “But Papa, I will be busy with the
campaigning”

“Yes, Shivaay and having a wife will be beneficial for your campaigns” he
said firmly and Shivaay exhaled as he knew his papa was right.

Ajay was quiet as Rachna looked at him before adding “But bhai saab, we
will need the time for preparation and stuff”
“Don’t worry about that, we will manage. But, the wedding will take place
next month itself” Vijay Singh said as Ajay agreed informing about the
dates after discussing it with their purohits. They discussed about the
logistics and finally the Bansals’s took their leave.

It was decided that the wedding would take place in Jaipur and it would be
on a grand scale as the Bansal’s didn’t want to compromise on any luxuries
for their daughter’s wedding. The invitees list would include all the VIPS
from all over and Vijay Singh wanted it to be the talk of the town.

Shivaay was quiet throughout as he was against the show business but
didn’t want to intervene between both the fathers and knew how excited
Vaami was as he remembered his talk with her the day prior.

He was traveling to Delhi to meet his party leaders when his phone rang
and he answered it saying “Yes Vaami”

“Hi, I hope am not disturbing you?”

“No it’s okay, am on my way to the party office, tell me” Shivaay said as
Vaami sensed he sounded occupied.

“Ah, I wanted to discuss about the wedding”

“Huh, what about it?” he asked as he scanned some files and Vaami clicked
her tongue saying “It’s okay Shivaay, call once your meeting is done”

“Sure, that’s fine?” he asked as he looked up from his file and smiled

“Yes, if I am going to get your divided attention then it better be later” she
replied as he grinned saying “Okay” and they hung up.

It was later at night when he called back once he retired into his room and
Vaami answered the call in the first ring.

“So, finally free” she asked

“Yes, had a hectic day. Tell me” he asked and Vaami wondered if this was
the way he was going to be talking, absolute to the point with no nonsense
attitude.

“Ah, nothing, just about the wedding, you know” she said and he frowned
asking “What about the wedding?”

“I mean, out attires and stuff Shivaay. I would like them coordinated” she
said and Shivaay exhaled as he had expected something serious when he
finally said “Do whatever you want Vaami, I am okay with anything”

“Anything?” Vaami asked a teasing tone and he replied

“Yes why?”

“Just” she said and continued “What if I select something in bright pink?”

Shivaay grinned replying “For you?”

“No, for you” she answered back and Shivaay smirked saying “I know you
have better taste than that Vaami”

Vaami laughed and they spoke for some more time as Shivaay heard her
continuous talks about the wedding preparation and he smiled at her
excitement.

They spoke for a few more minutes and hung up when Vaami who was on
cloud nine stretched her arms as Radhika and Ruchi entered her room.

“Oh, thank God you not on call” Radhika said as the girls sat cross legged
on the bed

“Please, I am not on call all the time” Vaami answered as they smirked
answering “Yeah yeah, we know”

“What, he is busy most of the times” Vaami said looking at her sister and
bestie who raised their brows asking “So, you’ll don’t talk is it?”
“What is it you want to know Ruchi?” Vaami asked directly as she knew
they were trying to dig some information from her

“Just that why hasn’t he come to meet you even once after your tilak?”
Ruchi asked and Radhika added “And why aren’t you both like a typically
engaged couple”

“And what is a typical engaged couple, by the way?” Vaami asked

defending

“You know, talking all night” Radhika said and Ruchi added “Going out on
dates etc”

Vaami exhaled as she remembered Shivaay telling her in clear terms that
this period was a crucial one for him and he would try his best to give her
the time she deserved and she had happily agreed understanding him.

“Ruchi” she said looking at her sister and turned towards her friend saying
“Radhika, I understand we are not a typical couple but trust me, we do talk
when he is free and he is really busy with campaigning about to start” She
exhaled and continued “He has already told me all this beforehand and I am
okay with it”

Ruchi looked at her and shook her head not understanding what magic
Shivaay had on her as Radhika smiled saying sarcastically “What an
understanding wife Shivaay is getting” and both Ruchi and Radhika
laughed as Vaami clicked her tongue and shook her head as she knew her
equation with Shivaay was different and to make others understand was not
something she was eager to do.

Days passed with both families busy with the wedding preparations and
Shivaay was busy as he finalized the logistics of his campaign schedule. He
hardly was home to view the crazy atmosphere as Rashmi and Sunita
engrossed themselves in shopping and planning.
Vijay Singh personally invited the VIPS and Ajay Bansal left no stone
unturned in the indulgence of the most awaited wedding of the future CM
of Rajasthan.

Chapter: 9

The D day approached and the Bansal household was an utter chaos as the
first family wandered from one room to another. Ruchi welcomed her in-
laws and her husband Suchay who knocked and entered Vaami’s room.

“Am I disturbing the bride?” he asked with a smile and Ruchi pulled his
hand as Radhika helped the beauticians getting Vaami ready.
“Ofcourse you are Suchay, leave”

“No, it’s okay Ruchi” Vaami confirmed as she saw her brother-in-law
through the mirror as he stepped forward and gently hugged Vaami from
behind saying “This was quick Vaami, I hope you know what you’re
doing?”

“Yes, Suchay bhai I am very sure” she replied with a sweet smile as others
stared at her and wished for her happiness.

Suchay, Ruchi and Radhika entertained her for some time as Ajay entered
and looked at his daughter warmly.

Vaami got up and the father daughter shared a warm hug as he said “I’ll
miss you”

“Me too papa” she said as a tear cascaded down her cheek when Ruchi tried
to lighten the atmosphere as she commented “Don’t worry papa, after
Shivaay becomes the CM they would be here in Jaipur itself and she would
be back here every evening to trouble you and mama, till then you guys live
in peace” and Vaami stuck her tongue out at Ruchi and smiled as the
realization hit her that she was right. Indeed, if Shivaay won the election,
their base would be Jaipur.
Ajay along with Suchay and other male members of the Bansal household
waited at the airport as they saw the Rajputs exit the chartered flight and
they walked ahead to receive them. The cars awaited them and they made
their way to The Oberoi Rajvillas where the wedding was to take place.

The wedding was a closed knit affair and thereafter the grand reception.
The security was on high alert as guest from all over reached the venue and
Shivaay checked in into his palatial Kohinoor Villa suite overlooking the
ancient Rajasthani Haveli.

He exhaled as he stretched himself on the plush sofa and closed his eyes as
the previous month had taken a toll on him. He had looked into the minutest
detailing of the campaigning and knew the months to follow were going to
be worse.

He placed his head in his hands and smiled as the realization that he would
have Vaami with him as his wife was sinking in and wondered how it would
feel to have her as his better half.

The knock on his door brought him back from his thinking as he answered
come in and Rashmi along with Sunita walked in.

They handed him his Sherwani saying “This is specially designed by Vaami
for you” Sunita said as Rashmi smiled adding “Get ready fast”

He smiled and nodded as the ladies left and he stared at the wrapped attire
and gently removed the beige colored Sherwani which had zardozi design
on the neck. He frowned as it was loud for his taste but thinned his lips as
he knew he was the one who had left it all to her and thanked God for the
subtle color and saving him from the bright pink one.

He showered and wore the sherwani which fit him perfectly making him
look royal when Rashmi walked in along with Vijay Singh and made him
wear their ancestral head gear and kissed his forehead as Vijay Singh
looked at him with pride.
He briefed Shivaay about the VIPS present and how their party would
benefit from this alliance. Shivaay stared at him blankly as nothing
registered, when Soham and Sunita entered to escort them towards the
mandap.

The Ball room was decorated elegantly and the families from both side
were in awe as they saw Shivaay entering. They whispered and gossiped as
the rituals started and the bride was called upon.

Shivaay looked stunned as he saw Vaami being escorted towards him. She
looked like a royal princess dressed in a golden zardozi attire and smiled as
she joined him.

The rituals were completed faithfully and they were declared husband and
wife. The newlyweds took the blessings from the elders and it was only
then that the couple had a few moments to themselves when Shivaay turned
towards Vaami complimenting “You look beautiful”

Vaami smiled as she asked “You look good too, by the way did you like the
color and design” and Shivaay smirked replying “It co-ordinates well”
making Vaami frown as she pressed “But did YOU like it?”

He grinned as he replied “Little loud but yes looks good” Vaami looked at
him with stern eyes as Radhika approached them and congratulated the
newly-weds commenting “You’ll make an amazing pair and Vaami, you
were right, he looks stunning in this sherwani”

Shivaay laughed as Vaami replied “Yes Radhika, some people need to

improvise on their taste”

Ruchi and Suchay were next to congratulate the couple as Vaami introduced
Suchay to Shivaay when Soham interrupted them asking the couple to take
the stage for the reception.

They walked hand in hand as the cameramen wandered around them and
took their place as people from all walk of life gathered to wish them. Vijay
Singh was on cloud nine as the political dignities gathered for his son’s
wedding and Ajay introduced the industrialist and top notch business
affluences to them.

The reception went on till late night as the families finally gathered for a
round of photo session and the dinner followed. Vaami could hardly gulp a
morsel as she was dead on her feet and Shivaay watched her exhausted face
as he excused them and they walked towards their suite.

As soon as Vaami stepped in she collapsed on the sofa whimpering “I am

dead”

“You’re that tired” Shivaay asked with concern and she nodded saying
“Tired of this heavy attire, these jewellery and it’s too much to walk in
these heels” and opened the strap of her sandals as she freed her feet.

Shivaay watched her in amazement and wondered how in the world did she
survive the last five hours standing, smiling and greeting on the stage.

“Who told you to wear such heavy stuff” he asked as he saw her struggling
to remove layers of her neck pieces

“What?” she asked as she stood facing him

He gestured towards her jewellery and said “itna struggle nahi karna padta”
and shook his head as she thinned her lips as she commented “instead of
helping, all you do is comment” and he smiled and tried helping her with
her heavy kundan neck pieces followed by her danglers and bangles.

She exhaled as she got rid of the jewellery and pointed towards her heavy
dupatta saying “Now this” and Shivaay grinned as he asked “Need help
with it?” and she immediately shook her head saying “No” and continued “I
mean is it okay if I call Ruchi or Radhika for help?”

“Sure, go ahead” Shivaay replied with a shrug making his way towards the
bedroom to change himself.
Vaami called Radhika who was about to leave the venue, entered the suite
and helped her change and hugged her wishing good night as she left
closing the door behind her.

Vaami looked around as nervousness crept in and she knew Shivaay was
waiting for her in the bedroom. She opened the door and stepped in as she
saw Shivaay relaxing on the bed with his legs stretched browsing the TV.

“All relaxed now?” he asked as Vaami changed into her night wear and
joined him sitting on the other side of the bed. She bit her lips as she
nodded and Shivaay smiled seeing her nervousness.

“Relax Vaami, I am not going to pounce on you”

“I know, but still” she said as she looked and turned towards him sitting
cross legged and he switched off the TV putting the remote on the bed
stand.

“It’s so weird nah” she asked and Shivaay raised his brows asking “what?”

“we hardly met for an hour and got engaged, hardly spoke to each other and
got married and now in the same room, same bed” she gestured with her
hands as her face showed her crystal-clear feelings of nervousness making
Shivaay chuckle. He folded his hands on his chest and watched her
attentively as she went on and on looking at him with a puppy face.

He smiled and cupped her face, kissed her forehead saying “Relax Vaami,
getting married was not in our hands, but getting to know each other is, so
let’s take this one day at a time, okay?” and she nodded as they spoke about
the evening and Vaami yawned while Shivaay watched her sliding under the
covers.

Chapter: 10
The next morning Vaami woke up stretching her arms as her eyes fell on
Shivaay’s face. He looked so much younger while asleep as his features
softened and Vaami smiled looking at him. She quietly got off the bed and
showered and dressed while Shivaay stirred as his eyes caught Vaami’s who
was staring at him through the mirror.

She turned and smiled greeting him “Good Morning” and he greeted back
as he woke up and walked towards her. He hugged her casually and Vaami
wondered how natural it all seemed. Them being together, him hugging her,
she smiled to herself liking the feeling as he excused himself to shower.

They joined the family as they waited for the newlyweds at the breakfast
hall and Sunita walked ahead to accompany Vaami as Shivaay joined the
men for breakfast.

The Bansal’s walked in as they greeted Vijay Singh and Shivaay politely
greeted them while Rachna hugged Vaami and they escorted them to the
airport.

The Chartered flight was ready for the Rajputs as Vaami hugged her parents
and walked ahead with Shivaay as they were the last ones to board the
flight.

Rachna was apprehensive seeing her little one go and Ajay stood watching
as tears streamed down his cheeks and the flight took off. Ruchi hugged her
parents knowing how emotional it was for them and Suchay drove them
back to the Bansal House.

Vaami was welcomed in a traditional way as she looked around when

Rashmi hugged her in a motherly manner and Sunita took her around
introducing her to the head staff.

She politely greeted everyone as her eyes wondered around the palatial
house. It was a house and not a home unlike hers. She found everyone to be
extremely formal and cordial towards each other when Sunita instructed the
helpers to prepare for the lunch.
Vaami looked at her as she instructed and Rashmi walked into the kitchen
and turned towards her saying “It’s the Rajput tradition Vaami, daughter in
laws sit for their meals after the men, so you and Sunita have your lunch
once we are done” and walked away leaving Vaami offensive.

She couldn’t believe her ears as she had heard stories of women eating after
men but had never ever faced such situation and she found it rather
disgusting.

She looked as Sunita helped serve and waited near the Verandah as her eyes
welled up, she felt helpless as she didn’t know what to do and where to go
when a hand touched her shoulder turning her around.

She looked at Shivaay who stood staring at her and smiled asking “Why are
you standing here all alone? Come” and held her hand and lead her towards
the dining table.

She saw her father in law and mother in law sternly looking towards them
and Soham passed a sarcastic smile as Shivaay pointed towards the seat
next to him saying “Sit, let’s have lunch” and Sunita stood horrifying as she
watched them all.

Vaami froze as she was about to sit and gently released her hand from
Shivaay’s strong grip and he looked at her raising his brows as she said
“You eat, I will accompany Sunita Bhabhi”

“You sure?” he asked raising his brows and she smiled assuring him she
was okay.

She watched as they had their lunch and later Sunita gestured her to sit
while Rachna instructed the helpers to serve them. Rachna smiled looking
at her daughter in laws and commented “No men in this family did what
Shivaay has done today. I should be upset with him for breaking the
traditions but am really proud of my son.”

Vaami’s respect for Shivaay increased and she smiled as Sunita nodded her
head agreeing with Rachna. They spoke about the wedding and the guests
when finally, Sunita escorted her to Shivaay’s room.

She entered and was happily surprised to see a conventional room unlike
the rest of the house. It was all subtle with wooden flooring and minimalist
furniture. Sunita looked at her expression and commented “It’s different
than rest of the house, nah?”

“Huh”

“Shivaay is different from rest of them” Sunita commented and Vaami

looked at her trying to figure out what she actually meant when they heard a
knock and Shivaay entered. Sunita excused herself and left the newlyweds
alone.

“Thank you”

“For what?” Shivaay asked

“You know for what. Ma told me no men in this family has ever done what
you did today” and he gave out a sarcastic smile saying “High time it needs
to be done” and shook his head changing the topic.

“That wardrobe is empty, you can have it” he said pointing out at the other
side and Vaami nodded and tried figuring how in the world would she fit
her stuff in that wardrobe. She looked around when Shivaay asked “what
happened?”

“huh, nothing” she replied and he got back to his work.

Vaami unpacked and looked at Shivaay working when she cleared her
throat to grab his attention and he looked at her raising his brows asking
“what?”

“We just got married yesterday” she said and Shivaay shut his laptop giving
her his attention and asked “So?”
“So, aren’t we supposed to be knowing each other and spending time with
each other?” she asked and Shivaay smirked asking “you right, so what do
you suggest?”

“Let’s go somewhere?”

“Dinner?” he asked and she smiled broadly as he stood up saying “get

ready, will inform ma”

Shivaay watched as Vaami descended the spiral staircase dressed in an

anarkali dress looking heavenly. She smiled greeting Rachna as Shivaay
gestured her to towards the car.

They walked outside as two men dressed in traditional Rajasthani attire

stepped forward to open the door and she nodded in acknowledgement as
she sat next to Shivaay.

“This all is so formal” she commented and he smiled agreeing as he said

“You’ll get used to it”

“huh”

She looked out as the car slid towards Umaid Bhavan and Shivaay helped
her out walking towards the luxurious palatial resort. They were escorted to
the far end table and Vaami noticed as the managers greeted SHivaay
personally and people stared at them.

Shivaay noticed her discomfort when he casually remarked “You’ll get used
to this too” and she bit her lips commenting “I forgot am married to a well-
known personality”

Shivaay chuckled adding “Well, this well-known personality has a lot of

responsibility for which he needs to travel tomorrow”

Vaami’s face fell and Shivaay cursed knowing he shouldn’t have informed
her right now, spoiling their dinner when he gently took her hand saying
“Vaami, you know the circumstances, right?” and she nodded sadly as he
continued “I have to travel to Ajmer and Pushkar to meet our party people
and it’s going to be really hectic, I wish I could have postponed it but I
can’t”

“It’s okay Shivaay, I remember you telling me it’s going to be really hectic
but it’s just that now it’s seems different, staying at home without you,
when I don’t even know anyone”

“Huh” he exhaled “I know, it will be strange but ma and Sunita will help
you settle and also I am just a phone call away”

“Yeah yeah, that I know” she said with a smug and he raised his brows as
she continued “You are a master of giving me divided attention,
multitasking as you talk to me”

Shivaay chuckled as she complained and said “I promise, once the election
is done, we will go for a holiday”

“Okay” she said with a smile while the steward took their order.

It was a pleasant evening as they spoke about their friends and Shivaay
elaborated his university days. Vaami felt special being with Shivaay as he
was a good listener and made her feel special at the same time was easy to
be with. Though she knew people did get intimidated with his persona but
with her he was different.

Chapter: 11

Shivaay left the next day and Vaami felt a void though it was just a day
since they were married.

She walked towards the verandah where Rachna was instructing Sunita and
greeted them both.
“Come Vaami, I was just informing Sunita about tonight’s dinner
arrangements. Some party leaders are invited and we have to make sure the
arrangement is flawless”

They continued their discussion as Rachna excused herself when Vaami

looked at Sunita saying “Everything is so formally arranged, nah?” and
Sunita smiled at her.

“Can I help?” Vaami asked and Sunita nodded as they walked inside the
kitchen to instruct the main cook. Vaami watched them work and later sat
with Sunita for a cup of tea.

They were talking about general things when they heard a loud shout and
Sunita ran towards the living room. Vaami followed as she saw Vijay Singh
furious.

“Where the hell is Soham?” he asked

“I asked something, are you all deaf?” he shouted when Sunita stepped
forward stammering “Ji, he is sleeping. He is not well”

“Not well, my foot”

“Get that donkey in my office right now, RIGHT NOW means RIGHT
NOW, understood?” he asked and Sunita nodded fearfully and ran towards
her room.

Vaami was shocked seeing the commotion and looked at Rachna

questionably who thinned her lips and walked towards Sunita’s room.

She sat in the living room browsing the magazines, though her mind was
stressed at the previous happening when she saw Soham walking randomly
towards the study.
Sunita and Rachna followed him and tried steadying him when he stumbled
on the last step.
Vaami was quietly observing when Soham and Rashmi entered the study
and Sunita joined Vaami. She was embarrassed looking at Vaami when
Vaami quietly asked “What happened Bhabhi?”

Sunita nodded her head as tears ran down her cheeks and Vaami tried
comforting her. Vaami was absolutely clueless when they heard loud shouts
coming from the study and she turned towards Sunita asking again “What
happened?”

Sunita wiped her tears and gulped the lump formed in her throat as she
whispered “Drinking”

“What?” Vaami asked

“Soham has a drinking problem. He was high last night and he overslept
today when he was supposed to attend an important meeting”

“Oh” was all Vaami could say and she looked as Soham walked out
furiously banging the study door and walking pass them.

Sunita narrated the unfortunate incidence of Suhas’s death and her marrying
Soham and how all this lead to his drinking problem as Vaami looked at her
in bewilderment.

The evening passed by in a jiffy with the dinner hosted for the VIPs and she
was actually shocked to see them as they were the ones whose picture she
had often seen in the newspaper.

Soham had sobered and Vijay Singh was a fine actor who pretended all was
well between him and his son.

Vaami retired to her room later at night as she lay thinking about the
happenings when her phone rang. She answered it preoccupied when
Shivaay immediately asked “What happened Vaami? You’re lost?”
“Huh, nothing” she said as she pulled herself back and sat on the bed cross
legged.

“Tell me how was your day?” she asked trying to sound normal when
Shivaay sighed deeply answering “Busy with meetings”

“Oh okay”

“What’s wrong Vaami tell me?” he asked calmly and Vaami bit her lips as
she narrated the entire day’s happening to him who exhaled as he explained

“Vaami, Soham has a problem and he is being treated for it and this
situation is a common scenario at home, if not with papa, he will have a row
with Sunita, so it’s better you ignore them and concentrate on your
designing, you wanted to do that right?”

“Yes I wanted to Shivaay, but how can I ignore when there are people
yelling at each other in the same house I live”

“Get used to it and divert your mind” he said coldly and she clicked her
tongue giving out a sarcastic chuckle saying “Right, so easy for you to say
right. Lock yourself in your room and live your life”

“Then what do you suggest?” he asked irritatingly and she lost her cool as
she replied “Suggest? Shivaay I would have expected for you’ll to have told
me all this beforehand. Why wasn’t I told about your brother’s death? Why
wasn’t I told you guys forcefully had Sunita Bhabhi married to Soham
bhai? Why wasn’t I told he has a drinking problem, why Shivaay why? Is
there anything else you guys are hiding for me?”

She exhaled as hot tears leaked and a sob passed when Shivaay closed his
fist tight to control his temper. None spoke for some time and finally
Shivaay inhaled as he explained “Suhas’s death is not a hidden fact, the
world knows about it, it was all over in the newspaper, so I assumed you
knew about it. Sunita was not forced to marry Soham, it was an option and
her family agreed infact, Soham was forced to marry her and because of
that he turned towards alcohol. He has his weak moments, but he will come
over it and to answer your last question, No I am not hiding anything from
you. I hope this satisfies you” he said curtly and hung up.

Vaami stared at the phone feeling vulnerable as she sobbed her heart out
and lay on the bed hugging the pillow when sleep took over the mental
exhaustion.

Shivaay stood overlooking the Ajmer Dargah as his hotel overlooked the
massive shrine and closed his eyes as the call for prayers rang calming him
down. He was hurt as Vaami accused him when his phone buzzed and he
diverted his mind preparing for his speech the next day.

The next day Vaami woke up with a headache and gulped down a Panadol
as she showered and made her way down.

She looked as her in-laws were busy discussing on the breakfast table while
Soham quietly had his breakfast and Sunita gestured her to join her as she
served.

Vijay Singh looked at her commenting “The day starts early in this house”
and Vaami bit her lips as she answered “Ji, I am sorry I was not well so
overslept” when Rachna immediately turned around asking “Are you better
now?” and Vaami nodded her head saying “Ji”

“When is Shivaay coming back?” Rachna asked as she served Vaami and
Sunita some parathas that Vaami gulped back her tears remembering her
talk with SHivaay.

They were hardly married for a week and this hurt her as Sunita gently
shook her saying “Ma is asking something” and she looked at Sunita who
was smiling looking at her and asked again “When is Shivaay coming
back?”

“Ji, I don’t know” she answered and Rachna nodded her head as she walked
away.

“What happened Vaami? You’re not well?” Sunita questioned

“No I am fine”

“You look lost” she commented and Vaami smiled sadly as she confronted
her talks with Shivaay to Sunita who patiently heard and explained “Don’t
blame him Vaami, he is the backbone of this house, he has tried multiple
times to get Soham out of this habit but all in vain. He is the one who has
sacrificed all his dreams to be the son papa wanted after Suhas’s death”

“I didn’t know anything Bhabhi and I blamed him for not telling me”

“It was all over the news Vaami, I am sure your parents must have known”
and that made Vaami realize why her mom was always against her getting
married in this family. She remembered her papa’s warnings of this family
being completely different from the one she was brought up and it all made
sense now.

Chapter: 12

The next day Shivaay walked in as Vaami was browsing through some
magazines on her bed. Their eyes locked and neither spoke when finally,
Vaami got up greeting him “Hey”

“Hi” he said without looking at her as he unpacked his bag and threw his
clothes for dry cleaning.

“Can I help?” she offered and he ignored her when Vaami stood behind him
saying “Sunita Bhabhi thinks you are the backbone of this house and”

Shivaay turned without letting her complete the sentence and looked at her
with piercing eyes saying “What Sunita thinks is not my concern, what you
think is”

Vaami bit her lips gulping as she whispered “Sorry”

Shivaay clicked his tongue and got back to his unpacking when Vaami held
his hand turning him towards her as she looked straight into his eyes saying
“I am really sorry”

“Ask before you assume Vaami” he said and she nodded her head
innocently making Shivaay smile.

She instantly hugged him taking him by surprise as he melted hugging her
back. They stood hugging as Vaami looked up and Shivaay raised his brows
making Vaami smile.

“What?” he asked

“I love it when you raise your brows like this” she imitated the way he
raised his brows and Shivaay let out a hearty laugh melting her heart. This
man surely knew to make way in her heart, she thought as she stepped back
and helped Shivaay unpack.

They walked down as Shivaay joined the men and Vaami walked towards
the verandah joining Rachna and Sunita.

Vijay Singh looked at Shivaay as he asked “How was the reaction of

Pushkar?”

“Good, Bhairav Singh has his rally today”

“huh” Vijay Singh replied as Sachdev along with Sanjeev Rathod walked
in.

They greeted each other when Sanjeev looked at Shivaay commenting “I

wasn’t expecting you here”

“Why?”
“Newly married, thought you must be on your honeymoon” he commented
casually when Vijay Singh dryly chuckled commenting “Honeymoon
started the day he became the Bansal damaad” and Shivaay furiously
looked at his papa and turned his gaze saying “We are not here to discuss
my personal life” and Sanjeev nodded getting the cue.

Sachdev sensed the atmosphere and changed the topic updating them on the
current scenario when Sanjeev clicked his tongue advising “Shivaay, we
need to introduce Vaami as your wife to media. You didn’t allow them in
your wedding but I fear it’s time we step out in public”

“He is right” Sachev said continuing “People need to know their proposed
CM, his personal life no longer stays personal”

Shivaay thought for a moment and looked at Sachdev as he knew they were
right and he would have to prepare Vaami to face the media and alert her as
he said “Call the media tomorrow, we will be there”

Sachdev smiled and Vijay Singh knew how possessive and smart his son
was and was waiting for this moment as many industrialists and business
men would be in support of their party once they knew Ajay Bansal’s
daughter was standing beside Shivaay Rajput. It would open many closed
gates giving their party a broad exposure.

“ek kilo ghewar mein 50 gram kesar toh 5 kilo main ghewar mein 250
grams aur..” Vaami was zapped as Sunita calculated all the ingredients
orally to the perfection.

She smiled as she looked at her commenting “You’re a walking talking

calculator Bhabhi” and Sunita smiled genuinely for the first time at the
complement as she said “I love numbers, right from my childhood I scored
cent percent in maths”

“wow Bhabhi, I am pathetic in numbers. I dread maths” and Sunita laughed

as Vaami looked at her asking “You’re gifted Bhabhi” and Sunita smiled
“Thanks”
“You never thought of using your gift?” Vaami asked apprehensively and
Sunita looked at her shaking her head as she said “Using? I didn’t even get
a chance to complete my graduation”

“Why?”

“I got married and then we traveled so” she shrugged and Vaami held her
hand as she said “You still can, you know”

“How? They will never allow me”

“Arre all you need to do is go and give your exams, you can study from
home” Vaami explained and there was a spark in Sunita’s eyes but was
dulled as soon as realization stuck.

“No, they will never allow”

“Ofcourse they will, why won’t they allow. Talk to Soham bhai”

Vaami suggested and Sunita smiled sadly shaking her head and got up as
Vaami held her wrist and asked “Why won’t you ask?”

“Haven’t you noticed? We don’t talk Vaami”

“What? But why?”

“He blames me for screwing his life. He never wanted to marry me but was
forced to” she explained and Vaami looked at her sadly as she remembered
Shivaay’s words.

“Chalo time for dinner” Sunita said and Vaami followed her in.

At night as they retired to their room Shivaay saw Vaami as she adjusted the
pillows and sat next to him when he announced “We need to face the media
tomorrow”
“What?” she questioned looking at him

“Huh, we need to introduce you as the next proposed CM’s wife”

Shivaay explained and Vaami looked at him shocked asking “Really?”

“Huh”

“But what will I say” she asked apprehensively and Shivaay smiled at her
innocent question and replied “You’re not going to say anything, infact
even avoid answering basic question. They are leeches, they will try
manipulating your every answer and we don’t want that. Just stand by me as
I speak and that’s it”

“Okay”

“And one more thing Vaami, hence forward you will not go anywhere alone
and I mean it. Nowhere without Ramji, he is my personal driver and body
guard who will be with you from onwards”

“But why?”

“Security reasons” he explained and Vaami was dazed as she had only seen
these things on TV and never experienced it. In a way, she was thrilled but
at the same time it scared her. She was in her deep thoughts when Shivaay
held her hand and she looked at him as he comforted her saying “You’ll get
used to it, don’t worry”

“Huh, okay” she replied as they spoke about general things before drifting
to sleep.

Chapter: 13
Akshara Merchant from National News, reporting from Jodhpur at the
headquarters of Lok Kalyan Party with the camera person Alay Shah. In a
short while we will be interviewing our next gen to-be CM, the heart throb
of many youngsters Shivaay Singh Rajput.

As many of us are aware Shivaay Singh Rajput, the youngest son of

national leader of LKP Vijay Singh Rajput is a law graduate from Oxford
and a passionate sports enthusiast. He has been recently married and today
we get the first glimpse of the newly married couple only on National
News, stay with us we will be right back after a short break.

Shivaay and Vaami walked inside the HQ as Shivaay looked dapper

wearing a navy jacket over his crisp white shirt and navy trousers, Vaami
looked classy in a baby pink lucknowi saree paired with pearls.

All eyes followed them as they took their place and Shivaay gently
squeezed her hand reassuring her, it would be fine.

Akshara Merchant, the shrewd news lady greeted Shivaay and he

introduced her to Vaami who smiled acknowledging her. The focus lights
and the cameramen present all around made Vaami nervous but seeing
Shivaay’s confidence and at ease she tried relaxing sitting next to him on
the plush sofa.

Welcome back, with me Akshara Merchant we have the most sought after
couple of New Gen India, Shivaay Singh Rajput with his wife Vaami
Shivaay Rajput.

“First of all, Congratulations to both of you”

“Thank You” Shivaay replied with a small smile

“You are the next proposed CM of Rajasthan, what changes would you like
to see in the coming years?”

“Well, there is a lot that needs to be done but to start off I am keen on
developing a peaceful and socio-economically developed state with cordial
relations with various tribes here”

“And how do you plan on doing that?”

“First and foremost, the key to any change is acceptance and for people to
be accepting, they need to have an open mindset and for that there is only
one solution – Educate them, formally or informally. We need to spread the
awareness…” Shivaay went on about his dream for Rajasthan and Vaami
was in awe of his confidence and persona. He was absolutely relaxed and
sounded genuine while talking.

“That’s wonderful. Now coming to your wife, Mrs. Vaami you are from a
reputed business family, how different is to be married in a political one?”
The news lady asked and Vaami bit her lips looking at Shivaay whose soft
gaze encouraged her to speak as she was scared of not goofing up.

“Well, I am just married and I feel family is family whether it’s a business
one or a political one, we are here to stand by each other” she answered and
Shivaay smiled with pride as Vaami relaxed.

“That’s a good one. So, where do you see yourself once your husband
becomes the CM of the state?”

“Right here next to him, supporting him in each and everything he does. His
love for his state and people is contagious” she said with a small smile
taking Shivaay by surprise. She was good with her answers and was
intellectual which made Shivaay smile with pride as he excused themselves
from the media saying they had places to go.

In the car, Vaami took a deep breath as Shivaay looked at her lovingly
commented “You were very natural, good job”

“Was I?” she asked continuing “Thanks, how do you do it Shivaay all the
time, giving interviews, speeches, rallies, campaigns?

He shrugged casually saying “You get used to it”

“Huh” she replied as her phone buzzed. She tried finding it in her bag as
Shivaay watched her with amusement wondering how on earth do women
fish out things from their bag. She finally picked up her phone and smiled
as she greeted her papa.

“Hi papa”

“Hi beta, I have a famous daughter” he said with pride continuing

“You were so good and natural”

“You watched the interview?”

“Ofcourse, how could I miss it?”

Vaami smiled as her mama came online “Vaami, you looked so classy in a
saree, my bachcha has grown up”

“Oh, come on mama”

“By the way, you were always a people’s person from childhood, so you
had to be good. Proud of you” Rachna commented and Vaami who looked
at Shivaay replied “Huh, but with right people by your side your confidence
doubles mama” and Shivaay glanced at her as she said that.

Vaami spoke to her parents and hung up when she turned towards Shivaay
commenting “I miss them”

“Huh, go and meet them” he replied

“Will you come?” she asked hoping for a yes when Shivaay looked at her
replying “I can’t Vaami, I am flying to Delhi tomorrow and then the actual
campaigning starts”

“Huh, okay” she said sadly to which Shivaay grinned saying “Why don’t
you go for a few days?”
“Yeah, I will” she replied as they reached home and Vaami got off and
Shivaay went back to his office.

She entered the Rajput House as Vijay Singh and Sachdev were about to
leave and Vaami politely greeted them. Vijay Singh smiled in
acknowledgement as he commented “You’re perfect for Shivaay, well
done” and walked out as Sachdev passed a warm smile to Vaami saying
“We watched your interview and we are proud of you”

Vaami thanked him and joined Rashmi and Sunita who were engrossed in
their talk as Rashmi too complimented her and Sunita hugged her.

She told them about how nervous she was initially and how natural
Shivaay was. Rashmi smiled proudly as she commented “He was always a
good orator and seeing him honestly working for his people makes me so
happy”

Vaami and Sunita heard as Rashmi narrated stories from her son’s
childhood days and how every time she spoke about Shivaay her eyes
sparked making it obvious that Shivaay was her favorite child.

The next morning, Shivaay left for Delhi and Vaami flew to Jaipur to meet
her parents.

Chapter: 14

Ajay and Rachna hugged Vaami as she greeted her parents. The ride back
home felt so nostalgic although it had been only three weeks since her
wedding she felt a different type of notion.

They entered home and were greeted by Radhika who was exult hugged her
as she pulled Vaami to her room. Rachna laughed seeing the girls as Ajay
smiled commenting “Mad these girls are”
“Huh, how lively is to have her back”

“Yes, and did you notice her smile” Ajay asked looking at his wife
“Huh, I am glad she is happy” Rachna replied as they dispersed for work.

“Tell me everything, don’t even think of hiding an iota of detail” Radhika

demanded as they sat on the bed.

“Tell you what?”

“Each and everything”

Vaami smiled as she narrated about Sunita, though she did not tell her about
Soham’s drinking problem and her in-laws. She smiled as she remembered
Shivaay and his calm and composed self, the way he was with her and his
no- nonsense attitude with outsiders.

Radhika listened to her attentively and smirked as she commented “You’re

are smitten by him”

“Huh”

“Yeah, there is surely something in Shivaay that he has this kind of effect
on you”

Vaami laughed as they continued chatting when Rachna walked in with

glasses of milkshakes.

They spoke about the general stuff and joined Ajay for dinner. The day
went in a jiffy as she caught up with her friends who had been invited
home.

It was late in the evening when Vaami joined her papa in the living room
who was busy browsing the news channels and he stopped as he heard
Shivaay’s speech.
He was officially declared the next proposed CM of Rajasthan and Vaami
was in awe of him as he spoke to the people about his dreams of Rajasthan.
His passion and dedication was well praised by the reporters and Ajay too
felt proud of him as he turned towards Vaami saying “He is sure to take
Rajasthan to a new next level”

“Huh, he is very sincere papa, always traveling to meet people and spread
awareness”

“Yes, I am seeing that. He is exactly what new India needs” Ajay

commented as Rachna joined them. She was not very happy hearing him as
she clicked her tongue grabbing their attention as she spoke “It’s good to be
working so sincerely but not on the cost of your family”

“Means?” Vaami asked

“You’ll are newly married Vaami, he has not even taken you for your
honeymoon and most of the time he is traveling. This period is very crucial
to build a bond between the husband and a wife and you’re missing out on
all of this time”

“Mama, he is really busy, though he does try his best to give me his time”
she tried explaining when Rachna nodded her head when Ajay suggested
“Why don’t you travel with him Vaami?”

“How can I travel with him papa?”

“Why not? Help him in the campaign, be with him. That is what you should
be doing?”

“But my designing?” Vaami asked as Ajay said “Take a break Vaami, after
you’re back get back to it” and Rachna intervened saying “He is right, that
way you’ll can be together as well”

Vaami thought about it and decided to speak to Shivaay. She would love to
help him in her own little ways but she would have to be guided as all this
was completely new for her. She changed and was ready to hit her bed
when her phone vibrated and she smiled as she looked at the caller ID.

“Hey”

“Hi, how are you?” Shivaay asked as he stretched himself as he was just
back from the LKP party office where he was officially declared the
proposed CM of Rajasthan.

“Good and congratulations, watched you live as you spoke about your
dream for Rajasthan”

Shivaay smiled thanking her when all of a sudden, she asked a question
taking him by surprise.

“Shivaay, can I somehow help you with your campaign, you know travel
with you and speak to young girls or whatever?”
He thought for a minute and liked the idea as he was sure she was an
intellectually smart girl as he had observed her during the interview.

“Do you really want to?” he asked and she nodded replying “Yes”

“It will be hectic Vaami and it’s not always easy you know, some places
don’t even have basic requirements and you’ll have to do with it”

“It’s okay Shivaay, you will be there nah”

Shivaay smiled at her answer as he too was happy with her suggestion and
promised to work out the schedule and share it with her.

They spoke about the general stuff and hung up just as Ruchi called and she
spoke to her at ease.

The next day she spent her day with her parents enjoying their warmth and
love when Radhika walked in pulling Vaami for shopping.
They entered Bapu bazaar, which was a huge market in Jaipur famous for
its traditional shopping and mouth licking street food.

They stopped at the local eatery where they were enjoying the chaat when
Vaami noticed there were a group of mid aged men who were busy staring
at her, gossiping amongst themselves.

She was alerted and tried telling Radhika just when one of them stepped
forward saying “Aap Shivaay Singh Rajput ki patni ho, hai nah?”

She politely nodded replying “Yes” and tried moving away as he shouted
around screaming “Dekho dekho hamare future CMji ki patni, aapne Bapu
Bazaar mein, Madam ek photo le” he asked frantically and Vaami tried
moving out of the crowd and Radhika looked around as she panicked and
people clicked their pictures and some even tried getting selfies with her as
she walked fast pulling Radhika and finally managed to get into the car
catching her breath.

Radhika seemed all lost as Vaami looked at her and said “I didn’t realize
they would notice me”

“You were on national television madam” Radhika commented though it

didn’t strike her as well. They looked scared but laughed exchanging the
euphoric feeling as people clicked their pictures.

Vaami dropped Radhika and was about to enter her home as her phone
buzzed and she answered it.

“Hey”

“Where the hell are you?”

Vaami frowned at Shivaay’s tone and replied “Shivaay all okay?”

“I asked where are you Vaami”

“Just entered home” she replied not understanding what was wrong
Shivaay exhaled as he sent her a snapshot from his tweeter handle and
asked her to look at it.

She opened the pic and was shocked as it read “Future CM’s wife enjoys
chaat at Bapu Bazaar wearing sleeveless top, is this the new Rajasthan? Is
our culture forgotten?”

Another tweet read “Sexy young wife you have man

@ShivaaySinghRajput”

The people had started commenting on how the newly wed bride was
forgetting her culture and dressing in modern open clothes publicly. She
was astonished as she had never realized people would troll her. She was
almost in tears as she said “Shivaay” and no words left her mouth.

He exhaled as he too realized this must be new to her and hung up as he

ordered his people for damage control. He didn’t want people trolling her.

Vaami was apprehensive as to why he hung up without talking to her and

her parents tried calming her down. Rachna cooked her favorite meal and
was about to call her when she saw Shivaay walking in. He greeted her
politely and asked for Vaami as Rachna showed him to her room.

He entered and saw Vaami tensed as he gently held her shoulders asking
“You okay?”

Vaami was surprised seeing him and nodded her head replying “Yes and I
am sorry, I had no idea people would notice me”

He exhaled as he pulled her towards him hugging her as he kissed her head
saying “I too am sorry I shouted, I should have alerted you though I did tell
you not to go anywhere without Ramji”

“Yes, but I thought” she tried saying as she looked up and Shivaay smiled
nodding his head
“Anyways henceforth be careful, I have got it under control and also, you’ll
have to delete all your social media accounts Vaami, I don’t want people
stalking you”

“Hah?” she asked and he shook his head. He told her about dos and don’ts
and helped her deleting the social media accounts. Ajay and Rachna
knocked walking in as Shivaay spoke to Ajay who was happy to see the
caring side of him as he stood by Vaami.

Rachna invited him for dinner but he politely declined as he had to get back
to Jodhpur right away when she insisted on him trying some of her
specialities. He obliged as they saw Vaami walking down with her bags and
she looked at her parents saying “I am going back with Shivaay” making
Shivaay happy as he tried controlling his smile.

They boarded their private jet and Shivaay got busy as his secretary briefed
him about his agenda making Vaami frown. Just as he was done she looked
at Shivaay saying “I am joining you Shivaay and I promise not to goof up”

He looked at her and smirked commenting “Madam you will need to shuffle
your wardrobe, you know showing too much of your skin won’t be taken
well here in Rajasthan, leave that for my eyes only”
Vaami stared as he said that and nodded as a blush crept up her cheeks.

Chapter: 15

Vaami reached home and met Sunita who sat in the verandah with a grumpy
face. Vaami sat opposite her as she greeted her and Sunita smiled sadly in
return not able to hide her teary eyes.

“What happened bhabhi?” Vaami asked cautiously as she could hear her
father-in-law nearby
“Nothing” she nodded and Vaami shifted and sat next to her asking again
“Tell me Bhabhi, what happened?”

Sunita looked at her as a tear escaped her eyes saying “How is it my fault
Vaami if Soham does anything wrong? We don’t even talk, let alone he
doesn’t even look at my face then how on earth am I going to bring him
some sense? Ma thinks I don’t do my wifely duties well, I don’t know what
to do, where to go?” she cried her heart out and Vaami gently held her hand.

“You know Bhabhi when you can’t change the circumstances you should
change your perspective”

Sunita looked at her trying to make sense when Vaami continued “I told you
the other day also Bhabhi, complete your graduation, do something for
yourself, when you bravely take a step ahead to open one door, trust me
many more doors will open on its own”

“But how Vaami?” she asked helplessly and Vaami smiled as she pulled
Sunita and they entered the living room in search of their mother-in-law.

Vaami informed her they were going on a drive and Rashmi curtly nodded
looking at them saying “Take Ramji”

“Ji” Vaami replied and both were on the way.

“Where are we going Vaami?”

“Ramji bhaiya, take us to the university campus?” Vaami told the driver
cum the body guard and Sunita stared at her with an open mouth.

“Vaami?”

“Come on Bhabhi, we won’t get down. Ramji bhaiya will go and get us the
form”

“But what if someone knows?” Sunita asked apprehensively

“Only person Ramji bhaiya will tell is Shivaay and I will handle him, so
relax”

Sunita smiled at Vaami and they reached the campus as Vaami instructed
Ramji about the form he needed to issue and once he got them Vaami and
Sunita were thrilled as Vaami smiled and encouraged her to fill it and apply.

They reached home and Sunita hid the form under her dupatta and went up
to her room as Vaami sat in the verandah waiting for Shivaay to get back.

In the meantime, Sunita hesitated in filling up the form but pushed herself
and filled it just when Soham entered their room. As usual he entered the
washroom with his change of clothes without even acknowledging Sunita.

She took up the courage for the very first time and inhaled as she waited for
him to come out and took a step back in fear as he opened the door.

He looked at her for a click of a second and was about to leave the room
when Sunita called him “Soham?” and he stopped at the doorway.

“Ah, actually ah, I” Soham threw a glance when she looked away
whispering “nothing” and he walked out.

Sunita exhaled and sat on the bed covering her face. She caught her breath
and hid her form as she made her way down to the kitchen as it was time for
dinner.

Vaami and Sunita served as ritual and later they sat for dinner when Sunita
hesitantly told Vaami “I have filled the form, but am scared Vaami”

“Why? What wrong are you doing Bhabhi? You are going to be studying
from home then what?” Just when Rashmi sat across them asking “What
happened?”

Sunita looked at Vaami who answered “Ma, Sunita Bhabhi would like to
complete her graduation. She can study from home and go and appear for
her exams at the University..” Vaami couldn’t continue as Rashmi showed
her hand for her to stop and looked at Sunita saying “What is this Sunita?”

“Ma I” she couldn’t utter a single word when Rashmi sternly looked at
Vaami saying “Don’t put ideas in her head, Rajput daughter-in-laws are
meant to stay at home and take care of their husbands, tell her to do that
first”

Vaami was flabbergasted the way she spoke and Sunita looked away hiding
back her tears. She had expected Sunita to take a stand and tell her that she
wanted to study but all she did was nod as her mother in law declared her
decision.

Vaami walked back to her room as she saw Shivaay sitting on the couch
with his legs stretched working on his laptop. She entered and sat opposite
to him and frowned looking at her preoccupied face. He closed the laptop
and sat up straight asking “Vaami what happened?

“Shivaay, did you ask your mother if I will be allowed to accompany you
for campaigning?”

Shivaay studied her expression and smiled as he replied “I don’t ask Vaami,
I tell”

She looked at him as she relaxed and he leaned forward holding her palms
in his as he asked “What happened?” and Vaami narrated the entire day
event to him. He exhaled as he looked at her saying “Saying and believing
are two different things Vaami. Ma says a lot of things but I doubt she
believes them. She speaks the language papa expects her to speak but in her
heart, she knows the rights and wrongs”

“But Shivaay, Sunita Bhabhi?”

“She has to take a stand for herself Vaami, if she wants to study she has to
speak up, you did your best by encouraging her, getting her the form now
it’s up to her”
“huh” Vaami replied as she really felt blessed to have Shivaay and knew he
certainly was the black sheep of this family.

She was about to get up to change when Shivaay called her asking “Vaami,
why did you come back with me?”

She raised her brows asking “Why? Didn’t you want me to come?”

“It’s not about what I wanted, it was you wanting to go and spend some
time with your parents” he smirked saying and continued “I thought girls
are eager to spend time at their maiden place but, yaha toh ulta hain, you
were eager to come back with me”

Vaami sensed his teasing mood and walked back towards him, sat on the
couch and nodded her head as she answered “Kya kare, if you have a
handsome husband back home, and you crave his time, you have to follow
him wherever he goes, you know”

“Huh” he too raised his brows nodding his head as Vaami bit her lips and he
pulled her towards him and they stared at each other’s eyes as he asked “So,
what do you plan to do with your handsome husband?”

“Talk” she replied and he chucked as he looked away saying “Such a mood
killer” and Vaami laughed at his put off expression and snuggled close to
him as she rested her head on his chest with their hands entwined and lay
there for some time. They spoke about general things when Shivaay
informed her about the schedule and Vaami heard him attentively mentally
noting the dos and don’ts.

Chapter: 16

The next day on the breakfast table Shivaay told his parents about Vaami
joining him for the campaign when Vijay Singh looked at Shivaay while his
wife asked “What are you saying Shivaay? How can Vaami travel with
you?”
“Why not ma? She will be helping me in the campaign and I think it’s a
good idea”

Vijay Singh gave his wicked lopsided grin as he said “He is right, it’s a
good idea” and continued “Vaami Bansal with Shivaay Singh Rajput is a
constant reminder to our people of the power and weightage the names
hold”

“You are wrong papa, Vaami Shivaay Rajput along with Shivaay Singh
Rajput is a constant reminder symbolizing a strong bond we share” Shivaay
replied with an authority as Vijay Singh, Rashmi and Soham looked at him
and Vaami who was hearing the conversation from the kitchen door felt her
heart swell with pride.

The day passed with Vaami arranging her wardrobe as Shivaay suggested
and she had a few bags packed when the house help knocked and carried
the bags and Vaami walked down to meet Sunita and her mother in law who
were waiting for her near the foyer.

Sunita hugged her and Rashmi turned to her as Shivaay waited near the car
along with Vijay Singh who were busy talking about the party.

“You’re lucky” Rashmi commented as she held her hand and continued
emotionally “Shivaay is making me proud by stepping with you in every
step” and Sunita nodded agreeing as Vaami looked at them trying to
understand who the real Rashmi Kumari Rajput was? The stern mother-in-
law? The proud mother or the scared wife?

They bid farewell to all as Vaami sat next to Shivaay in the car as he was
busy being briefed by his secretary. The month-long campaign was a hectic
schedule with them covering almost all the interior parts of Rajasthan.

According to Shivaay, the core strength of the youth was there who needed
guidance and motivation to move ahead in life.
He later turned to Vaami handing her the itinerary as she glanced through it
not knowing most of the places and bit her lips as Shivaay smirked seeing
her and said “Don’t worry, you will get to know the places once we are
there”

“Huh” she said and looked at Shivaay who was staring at her and asked
“Shivaay why did you agree for me to come with you?”

“Why? You wanted to come right?”

“Yes, but still” she asked apprehensively and Shivaay smirked as he replied
“I was selfish, I didn’t want to stay away from you for that long” he
continued as he held her hand saying “I will be busy the entire day but
atleast we will get to spend our evenings and nights together”

Vaami was happily shocked hearing Shivaay confess and looked at him
when Shivaay cupped her face and winked at her making her blush.

The car honk broke their moment and Shivaay looked ahead as they
reached the airport and Vaami saw the helicopter waiting for them. It was a
thrilling experience for her as it was the first time she was riding the
helicopter.

They landed at the Jaisalmer helipad and saw the cars waiting for them.
There were a group of men waiting for Shivaay who greeted Vaami and
escorted them towards the car.

They drove through the sand dunes and reached Lodurva, a small miniature
town near Jaisalmer. It was famous for its jain temples and carvings.

They entered the guest house and Vaami sat next to Shivaay as he briefed
her about Lodurva. He arranged for Ramji to escort Vaami for a visit to the
temple as he got busy meeting people from Lodurva.

Vaami visited the temple and was amazed with the kind of carvings that the
locals did. She being from the designing background appreciated the
craftsmen and knew the kind of hard work and labor that went into bringing
out such master pieces.

She was on her way back when she saw a group of young women gathered
near a small temple dancing on a folk song. Some sat across in a group
doing needle work whereas some cheered for the dancers.

She asked Ramji to stop and enjoyed their dance. She clapped gaining
attention as the women got cautious and bowed as she appreciated their
graceful dance. She later saw the women doing the needle work and was in
awe of their talent.

She spoke to them, appreciating their precisions and wondered what a talent
box these people were. She reached the guest house later in the evening as
she saw Shivaay talking to a group of young men.

She saw the way those men hero worshipped Shivaay and had a sense of
pride as he promised them help in whatever way he could. It was later at
night when SHivaay joined her for dinner when he asked “So how was your
day?”

She told him about the temple carvings and how she met those talented
women when Shivaay smiled at her saying “That’s what I want people to
come out with Vaami. Rajasthan is a hub of talent which has been long
exploited, I want my people to get what they deserve”

She nodded agreeing and yawned as she was dead tired and Shivaay
smirked saying “Just the first day and you are tired”

She sat straight giving him a smug smile as she replied “Mister, I am not
used to like you but I shall prove my worth” and Shivaay compressed his
smile saying “Sure”

The next day was the campaign where Vaami accompanied Shivaay as she
sat on the stage and looked at thousands of people gathered.
She was nervous seeing them. Shivaay took the podium as he started his
speech and it amazed Vaami as there was a pin drop silence as people heard
him talk. He had a way with them, he went down to their level to talk to
them, made them feel as if he was one amongst them. He made their
problems sound like his and Vaami smiled seeing the reaction of people.

Later they left Lodurva and headed towards Khuri, another small town near
Jaisalmer. It was a tourist attraction as it had extensive dune areas attracting
their share of sunset visitors.

The guest house was a beautiful setup of canvas tents as Vaami entered one
of them which had a cozy four poster bed with ensuite open bath ideal for
couples.

Shivaay left for his meetings as Vaami relaxed on the bed reading and
dozed off to sleep. It was late evening when she woke up and stretched
herself as she walked out and was mesmerized by the beauty right in front
of her eyes.

The sunset made the sand dunes glow in golden and it was a postcard
capture. She took her mobile out to take pictures and smiled as she saw
Shivaay walking towards her. He smiled as he saw her happily clicking
pictures when Ramji came forward saying “Sir, the met dept has alerted for
a sand storm tonight”

Shivaay nodded as he enquired about the safety of his people and made
arrangements for the safeguards of animals.

They had a quick dinner and retired in their tent as he secured the doors and
windows and looked at Vaami who was nervous at the sound of wind
blowing.

Chapter: 17
As the force of wind made its presence felt, Vaami shivered. She gasped
closing her eyes as the lights went off suddenly and she could feel
Shivaay’s soothing voice calming her as he whispered near her ears.

She could feel his breath on her nape, giving her goosebumps with the fear
of nature forgotten and an unknown nervousness making its way.

He traced her neckline with his fingers leaving soft trail of kisses as she
moaned with pleasure. She bit her lips as he turned her gently cupping her
face. It was pitch dark and all they could feel was the symphony of their
breaths.

Shivaay pulled her close, tracing her lips with his thumb pad and moved
closer teasing them with his own. He kissed her softly at first and once he
felt she was comfortable opening to him, he turned his kiss into a hungry
one.

They stood entwined together when realization stuck Vaami making her
step back as she touched her lips. She could feel the blood rushing up and
was about to move when Shivaay stopped her, holding her wrist and pulling
her towards himself as he asked “You okay?” she nodded unable to utter a
word when he carried her making her lay on the bed and joined her
unbuttoning his shirt.

He could hear her heart racing as he smiled and showered her with his
kisses. Her toe curled as he gently undressed her making every cell in her
body burn with desire.

Time passed as they explored each other and finally sleep took over as they
lay entangled.

The sun rays peeped through the canvas making the tent glow as Vaami
opened her eyes to feel Shivaay’s strong arms around her. She turned to
face him and stared at him.

Shivaay opened his eyes as he saw Vaami staring and smiled pulling her
closer and she buried her face in his neck whispering “Good morning”
Shivaay greeted back in his grouchy voice as he lifted her making her lie on
top of him. She refused to look up as he teased “You know something?”

“What?” Vaami asked as she looked up with her brows raised

“You moan very loudly”

“Huh?”

“Yeah” he smirked saying and laughed aloud as he saw Vaami’s eyes

popped open and her cheeks turning into a beautiful shade of crimson. She
lay with her head on his chest as he hugged her close just when his phone
rang.

“Yes?” he answered

“Okay” saying he turned his attention towards Vaami kissing her on her
head.

“The storm has cleared we need to leave Vaami” he said and Vaami hugged
him tight saying “No”

“No?” he asked confirming her reply when she turned on her stomach
supporting her head on her arms facing him as she said vulnerably “Let’s
stay for a day more Shivaay”

“Vaami we” he was about to say when Vaami pouted saying “Please,
consider it as our honeymoon, please” she said as Shivaay clicked his
tongue saying “I promise you a proper honeymoon Vaami, but not now. We
have to leave as the schedule is packed and you know it”
She nodded sadly as he got up saying “Get ready and pack, we leave in an
hour”

Vaami looked as he entered the bath and was feeling sad cursing at the
phone call which turned her romantic Shivaay back into the politican
Shivaay.
She exhaled and wore Shivaay’s white discarded shirt and started packing
just when Shivaay stepped out of the shower wearing a towel around his
waist and a small towel around his neck.

He stood in front of Vaami with his one hand around her waist and the other
trying to unbutton his shirt that Vaami was wearing. Vaami got cautious as
she asked “What are you doing?”

“My shirt, my wife, I can do whatever I like” he replied with a teasing tone
when Vaami pushed him taking a step back as she thinned her lips saying “I
thought we are getting late” and walked in to shower.

Shivaay looked as she banged the door close and knew she was upset with
him and he had to make it up to her. He shook his head and got back to
dressing as he made a few important calls eyeing Vaami as she was getting
ready and they left for Pali.

The entire way he observed she was quiet and tried cheering her but all in
vain. He was amused at her behavior just when the car halted and they got
down.

The rally was set and Shivaay walked up to address the people as Vaami
watched him. All her disappointments were washed away as soon as she
saw Shivaay speak to the masses gathered.

His love for them wiped away her sadness and she was back to herself as
Ratan Singh the main head in Pali, who was sitting next to her called her
and greeted “Namaste”

She smiled cordially and greeted back when he said “The kind of work
Shivaay has done for them so far is unimaginable”

“Ji”

“These people consider him their hero, some their problem solver and some
even god” he said with a contended smile and Vaami looked as Shivaay
continued his speech.

Later as they dispersed, Shivaay dropped Vaami at the guest house and
joined his men for the meeting.

Vaami looked around as it was a small cottage on the river Bandi. It was a
peaceful place and she walked around the premises and her eyes landed on
a small group of women discussing something seriously.

She stood afar and watched them as she saw one of them sobbing while the
other tried to console. She walked towards them as they stood up watching
her and Vaami smiled at them as she greeted them “Namaste”

They greeted back when Vaami politely asked “Sab theek hain?”

“Jee” one of them answered as others looked at each other and Vaami
smiled.

They shook their head in acknowledgement at Vaami and started walking

making Vaami wonder what their problem was. She still had to learn from
Shivaay to come down to their level to talk, somehow, she could not brake
that barrier when all of a sudden one of the woman from that group fell and
the others panicked.

Chapter: 18

Vaami rushed towards her and looked at the unconscious lady and tried
lifting her head on her lap when she asked “Kya hua hain inhe?”

The others were numb as Vaami asked them again “Kya hua hain, what
aren’t you’ll saying anything”
One of them stepped forward and kneeled next to Vaami as she touched the
unconscious lady’s cheeks saying “She is Arti, my sister and she is
pregnant”

“What?” Vaami exclaimed as one of them brought a glass of water and they
splashed some on Arti’s face making her open her eyes. She stared at Vaami
who smiled and helped her get up.

Vaami quickly made her way to the guest house and brought some sugary
drinks for Arti as she drank and thanked Vaami. She had tears rolling down
her eyes as Vaami offered to drop her home and she denied shaking her
head. Vaami insisted and Arti along with her sister sat in the car along with
Vaami and Ramji.

“You should take care Arti and congratulations” Vaami said as both Arti
and her sister looked at each other.

Arti bit her lips and Vaami knew something was troubling her, she enquired
about the doctors and medical facility in the village when they replied
positively saying they did have some decent ones.

Vaami nodded just as the car stopped and Vaami got down along with the
other two women when Arti looked at Vaami, joining her hands thanking
her when Vaami stopped her asking “What’s the matter Arti? Aren’t you
happy you’re pregnant?”

Her sister who looked at Arti replied on her behalf saying “Madamji, this is
the fourth time she is pregnant and every time she delivered a baby girl
and”

“And what?” Vaami pushed for an answer

“And as soon as they were born they were killed” she replied with tears
rolling down her cheeks

“What?” Vaami was flabbergasted as she looked at them who ran towards
their house, she wanted to go behind them and talk to them but Ramji
gestured her to sit in the car and they drove back to the guest house.

The entire way Vaami was disturbed as she failed to understand how could
someone be this cruel. She had read about female infanticide but seeing and
knowing in reality was a different thing. Arti’s face kept coming in front of
her whom she assumed must be her own age.

She paced the corridor deep in her thoughts just when Shivaay entered. He
saw Vaami and smiled greeting “Hey”

Vaami looked at SHivaay and ran hugging him, shocking him as he hugged
her back and lead her in the house making her sit on the chair. He kneeled
in front of her asking “What happened Vaami?”

She looked at Shivaay blank when her cupped her face asking “What
happened? Why are you so upset?”

Vaami gulped the lump formed in her throat and looked at Shivaay as she
told him about Arti and how helpless she looked. Shivaay sat next to her
holding her hand as she spoke her heart to him.

“Vaami, this is an age-old issue. I know it’s very disturbing but there is only
something we as a government can do. These people are very cunning, one
won’t even know when and what all they can do”

“But Shivaay, there has to be a solution nah”

“Huh” he exhaled as he continued “Like I always say awareness and

education is the only solution. If the young men start valuing their women
they would never allow their daughters to be killed so mercilessly”

“Shivaay I want to help these women, I want to help Arti” and Shivaay
smiled looking at Vaami and shook his head saying “okay, but ab chalo lets
go and eat, I am hungry”

Vaami smiled and nodded as they had a quiet dinner and retired to their
room. Shivaay got into the mood and they explored each other when finally
sleep took over.

The next morning, they were on their way visiting many small villages in
the nearby vicinity of Pali. Shivaay spoke to the young men explaining and
educating them about new techniques when Vaami saw Ratan Singh
approaching him. An idea struck and she went ahead greeting him
“Namaste Ratan Singhji”

“Namaste” he smiled and greeted back as Shivaay looked at them and

smiled.

“Shivaay, Ratan Singhji, I actually” she looked at them and continued “I

would like to talk to women in these villages”

“Women? Why? What will you talk to them about?” Ratan Singh asked and
Shivaay looked at Vaami and gestured through his eyes, encouraging her.

“Ji, woh just basic women health issues and stuff”

“Ohho, lekin” he was about to speak when Shivaay intervened saying “Kal
Vaami will talk to them in the Sabha room. Spread the word and gather
them”

Vaami gave a triumph smile and Ratan Singh nodded in agreement.

On the way back, Shivaay asked Vaami “Do you know what you’re going
to be talking to them about?”

Vaami thought for a minute and thinned her lips as she replied “huh, though
I will talk to Shiru aunty for help”

“Shiru aunty?” he asked raising his brows

“Yes, she is my gynec”

“Why do you need a gynec?” he asked surprisingly

“All women do and she can help me with some of my questions”

“Impressive” he smirked and continued “Vaami, talk to them in general

okay? Do not get personal” he advised and she shook her head knowing
well what he tried saying.

They reached the guest house as Vaami entered her room and called her
Shiru aunty. She told her about her whereabouts and asked for guidance.
She thought of things she wanted to convey just when Shivaay entered the
room.

He saw Vaami jotting down points and felt proud of what she was about to
do. She discussed some of the points with him and he guided her about the
dos and don’ts with the conservative people there. He ended the
conversation saying “Vaami, remember not to get personal. All you can do
is spread the awareness rest all is their personal decision”

“Is killing someone a personal decision?” she asked and Shivaay gasped
looking at her.

“No, it’s not” he answered and turned as he knew he was taming a wild cat.

Chapter: 19

The next day Vaami reached before the women started gathering. She
looked around as they sat apprehensively as if someone had a gun shot
pointed on their head, amongst them was Arti and her sister whom she met
the other day.

Vaami began by casually introducing herself in hindi and tried conveying

how proud and happy her parents were when she graduated and became an
independent designer.
How fulfilling her work was and so on when one of the women stood up
asking “Madam, aap ye sab hume kyu bata rahi hain?”

“Kyuki aap sab mein bhi ek Vaami hain, who can do something for her own
self”

“Sab bolne ki baatein hain madam, hamare ghar mein 4-5 bachche hain,
who will look after them if we start living our dream”

“Aur aap Shivaayji ki patni hain, aapko nahi pata hamme kya kya karna
padta hain” another one said and the women agreed to them dismissing
Vaami as she saw them leaving one after the another.

Arti and her sister were the last ones to leave when she politely joined
hands in front of Vaami and were about to leave when Vaami stopped them
asking “Arti I wanted to talk to you, please wait”

She was fearful as she bit her pallu in her mouth and looked down as Vaami
said “Arti, I want to meet your family, maybe I can help you”

“Nahi madamji, please don’t fall into these things” she said in hindi and ran
out leaving Vaami disappointed. She dropped her shoulders and walked out
when Ramji saw her and smiled sadly at her.

He drove her back to the guest house where Shivaay awaited her.
He saw her walking in when Vaami asked “You knew this would be the
response, right?”

He simply nodded explaining “I did Vaami but I didn’t want to discourage

you. Their thought process is age old and we cannot change it in a single
day”

“They didn’t even listen Shivaay” she said as she sat next to him and he
pulled her hugging her.

“I didn’t want to kill your excitement Vaami, so I didn’t say anything”

“Then how do they listen to you?” Vaami asked looking up to him and he
smirked replying “I am a charmer”

Vaami smiled at his answer saying “Please” making Shivaay laugh as he

said “You have to show them things from their perspective, their benefits
and then they will take interest. You cannot impose your thoughts on them”

“Huh” she agreed when a thought struck her. She looked at him saying
“Shivaay why don’t you talk to the men, about female infanticide and stuff”
and Shivaay shook his head saying “No Vaami, it’s the election time, I can’t
do that right now”

She took a step back as she creased her brows asking “Just because you’ll
lose your votes you will allow some innocent lives to die?”

“I am not saying that” Shivaay defended himself

“Ofcourse you are”

“No Vaami I am not, it’s only after our party wins, that I can lay down some
rules, regulations and prohibitions. At the moment, I cannot force things”

Vaami looked at him as he continued “And for you think so low of me is

disgusting” he said and walked away.

Vaami followed him in the room and back hugged him apologizing as
Shivaay asked her to pack as they were to leave for another city.

They passed through a lot many villages where Shivaay spoke to the people
and Vaami knew her husband was a sure charmer, the way people respected
and looked forward to him proved that.

Few days passed by the same trait when finally, the car stopped at Kota, the
cultural district of Rajasthan.

Vaami was fast asleep as Shivaay woke her up and she looked around, it
conjured up an image like that of an Arabian Nights fable though she had
visited Kota before with her parents but that was years ago.

The guest house was no less than a palace and the flora fountains in the
foyer added to its majestic beauty. Of all the places they visited Vaami fell
in love with this one. She smiled as she walked through the corridors and
was escorted to her room.

“This is so very royal” she exclaimed and Shivaay who was busy on his
phone looked up and grinned at her excitement.

“It is, it belonged to Raja Arvind Singh and they haven’t changed the
structure just maintained it”

“Huh, impressive” she commented

“I have a rally right now, you relax and will see you for dinner” Shivaay
commented and Vaami nodded with a smile.

She took a luxurious bath and relaxed herself reading a novel. She spoke to
her parents and sister who were amazed with the traveling they had done
and somehow Vaami was enjoying her time with Shivaay. Though he was
way too occupied during the daytime but their cozy nights made it up for
her.

It was late in the evening when Vaami asked Ramji to drive her around and
they stopped at the Kota Palace which resembled a massive sandcastle
rising from the desert.

She was mesmerized seeing the sunset making her feel serene. She sat there
watching the view and was deep in her thoughts when she saw some foreign
tourists around. She heard their talks and was proud of the fact that her
country, her state had so much to offer and it made Rajasthan the most
preferred tourist destination for foreigners.

She was walking down the fort when her eyes caught the sight of young
woman standing at the cliff. Initially she thought maybe she was enjoying
the view but the way she moved back and forth made Vaami curious and
she walked towards her.

It was just the moment when Vaami reached and held the lady before she
could jump and pulled her behind. Vaami was shocked and out of breath as
she yelled “Are you crazy? What are you doing?”

The lady who was devastated looked at Vaami as she sat on the floor with a
thud and Vaami kneeled in front of her. Both were short of breath when
Vaami who was first to recover voiced her doubt asking “Were you trying to
jump off the cliff?”

She looked down while Vaami repeated the question when Vaami touched
her shoulders asking “Why?”

The lady looked at Vaami with a blank face muttering a few words which
Vaami could hardly understand. She had no clue what was wrong with her,
she looked as if she belonged to a well to do family as she was dressed in
traditional rajasthani dress with matching jewellery.

She helped her stand and escorted down the hill as she walked ahead
without looking back sitting in a car making Vaami curious as Ramji got
around the car for her. The drive back to the guest house was mysterious for
Vaami as her mind kept going back to the lady she had just saved.

Chapter: 20

She paced the verandah as she waited for Shivaay to get back when Ramji
entered informing her that Shivaay would be delayed in the party meeting
and had passed the message for her to not wait for him.
She thanked him and had a quiet dinner as she called her friend Radhika
and spoke to her diverting her mind but, that lady’s image kept coming back
in front of her making her wonder what actually was she trying to do.

The next morning, she woke up to find Shivaay getting ready as she
yawned and stretched herself as he walked towards her, kissing her head
greeting her “Morning”

“good morning” she greeted back with a smile

“What time did you get back?”

“around midnight” he answered as he tried buttoning his cufflinks and

turned towards Vaami saying “We are invited for dinner tonight, it is Viren
Singh Roongta’s house we will be visiting, they are well known
businessmen and your papa knows them as well”

“Oh okay” she said as he bid her a bye and left.

Vaami lazed around trying to divert her mind and called her parents
mentioning about the visit to the Roongta’s.

“Viren Singh’s father Vinod Singh Roongta is a close friend of mine though
we lost contact over the years”

“Oh okay papa” Vaami said as he gave a little detail about the Roongta’s
and they hung up.

Vaami dressed in a pure pink gorgette saree looking elegant as Shivaay

walked in to freshen up. He looked at Vaami and held her by waist pulling
her towards him as he smirked saying “You look gorgeous”

“thank you” and Shivaay kissed her hard as she stepped back after a while
to catch her breath as she said “you ruined my lipstick”

“Fix it” he replied with a smirk and went in for a shower.

They entered the Roongta House which again was palatial and they were
welcomed royally by Viren Singh and his father Vinod Singh Roongta.

They were led to the grand living room where the women awaited them and
Vinod Singh introduced his wife Vaidehi Kumari and his daughter-in-law
Sikha Kumari to them.

Vaami froze as she looked at her, recognizing her and she too tried hiding
her gaze as she excused herself and rushed inside. The men spoke about the
politics whereas Vaidehi Kumari tried having small talk with Vaami.

Vaami waited for Shikha to come out but it was later that Vaidehi Kumari
informed them she was not well and would be resting. They ate their dinner
as Vinod Singh informed them about Viren’s new venture and so on.

Vaami got restless and asked the elder lady “I would like to meet Shikha, is
it okay if I go and see her”

“Ofcourse please” she replied as she guided her to Shikha’s room as

Shivaay watched her go. They entered and Vaami watched Shikha lay on
her bed and Vaidehi Kumari excused herself out.

Shikha turned pale and was quavering as Vaami looked at her with
questioning eyes. It was after a while that Shikha whispered “Please don’t
tell anyone”

“I won’t Shikha I promise but I want to know the reason”

“Please” Shikha pleaded to drop the topic but Vaami stepped forward as she
was getting restless and the episode haunted her.

Shikha got up and sat leaning on the headboard as all she said was
“Tomorrow at the same place. I cannot tell you anything here”

Vaami thought for some time if she should be trusted but she knew she had
no other choice so she nodded and left her room joining the others in the
living room.
“Shivaay your party has our full support” Vinod Singh said as Vaami sat
joining them and he looked at her and twisted his moustache saying “Your
wife joining you for campaigns is a good gesture, people are appreciating it,
which I thought otherwise”

“Rajasthan is changing so are its people” Shivaay replied smugly taking

their leave as the Roongta’s escorted them to their car.

“What do they do Shivaay?” Vaami asked once they were in the car

“They own multiple educational institutes here in Kota, it’s the hub of
education and are now venturing into hotel industry” he replied adding
“They have a great influence here on the people so it’s important for us to
win their trust” he explained as Vaami nodded as her thoughts went back to
Shikha Kumari.

She hoped she would keep her promise and come to meet her when Shivaay
asked “Why did you want to meet Viren’s wife?”

Vaami looked at him and shook her head saying “just” as she decided to
keep it to herself for now.

It was the last leg of their schedule and they were due to fly back to Jodhpur
as Shivaay had his final filing nomination rally just before the actual
election and it was the most crucial period for him. He left for the party
meetings and Vaami was restless the entire day as she left for the fort with
Ramji where she saw Shikha Kumari waiting for her and took a sigh of
relief.

Chapter: 21
“Hi” Vaami said as she joined Shikha who was dressed in a saree and was
overlooking the deep cliff

“Hello” she greeted back sadly when Vaami stood near her and asked “How
are you now? Was it seeing me that made you unwell yesterday?”

Shikha looked at her tears welled her eyes and she immediately looked
down running her tongue over her lip.

“I was disturbed and I know it was a foolish thing to do” she started as
Vaami stared at her while she continued “Viren and me got married three
years ago and I was expecting my first child right after. Everything was fine
when during my second scan my mother in law who accompanied me came
to me saying ‘we needed to abort the baby as there was some complication’
I was naïve enough and came in her talks and agreed for the D&C. It was
painful but she kept consoling me that it would be all okay the next time”
she gulped as she looked at Vaami who was listening to her attentively and
continued

“After about six months, I conceived again and prayed all was okay when
again during the second scan, my mother in law informed me I needed to
terminate my pregnancy. I was shocked as she never gave any proper
explanation about what was wrong and forced me to terminate. I had read a
lot about pregnancies and thought it looked all okay and demanded a
written report reasoning the termination. The doctor refused to give it me
and my mother in law was furious at me for asking one. It was later when I
forced the doctor blackmailing her to sue her that she told me it was my
mother-in-law’s wish that she wanted to abort my baby. I was not even
asked nor did Viren say anything” she said as a tear escaped her eye and
Vaami looked at her asking “Why?”

“The scan showed it was a girl child” she whispered and Vaami froze as she
refused to believe that even educated people who ran institutes, who
imparted knowledge were murderers, they discriminated between genders.

“I am sorry” Vaami said as she gently hugged her and Shikha looked at her
vulnerably.
“I am expecting again Vaami but this time I haven’t told anyone but I don’t
know how long will I be able to hide so I was disturbed and the thought that
she would force me to terminate if it were a girl child, was killing me”

“So you thought of ending both your and your unborn’s life? Then what is
the difference between you two Shikha? Aren’t you both killers? No
Shikha, don’t think that way” Vaami comforted her and both sat on the
bench as they looked at each other.

Vaami’s every word sinked into Shikha’s heart and the tears rolled down her
cheek as Vaami’s heart went out to her as she held her hand saying “What if
we go and meet that doctor who did your scan? Isn’t it illegal to detect the
sex?”

Shikha smiled sarcastically saying “Who follows rules when there are
stacks of notes in front of you”

“But we can warn her or worst complain about her to higher authorities”
Vaami suggested and Shikha shook her head saying “No point”

Vaami felt helpless and was shocked to know the reality. She had read about
female foeticide but again reality was different. She thought how blessed
was she who was raised with utmost love and pampering and here the
mothers fought to save their girl child.

“Shikha I am going to leave my number with you and if in anyways I can

be of help, please don’t hesitate to call me anytime of the day”

Shikha smiled as she looked at Vaami saying “This is a big concern here
Vaami and I am glad Rajasthan is getting young leaders like your husband.
Once you come into power try stopping this, let us not suffocate with this
thought is all I ask for”

“I promise I will do my best” Vaami said as Shikha looked at her with a

smile and got up as Vaami added “Take care of yourself Shikha”
“I will and this time I will not be fooled” she said as she walked away.

Vaami prayed for her and her child’s safety and had goosebumps with the
mere thought of going through something so devastating.
She sat in the car as Ramji drove and they reached the guest house.

Shivaay got back and was busy instructing his people as Vaami packed and
they flew back to Jodhpur.

They reached home late at night and Vaami excused herself to her room as
Shivaay entered the study to meet Vijay Singh. He updated him about the
rally and campaigns when Sachdev walked in happily as he said “The
campaigns were successful Shivaay and people are waiting to have you as
their new CM”

“The Rathods, Roogtas and the Bansal group have been very supportive
from the Jaipur constituency. This is our victory” Vijay Singh said as he
rolled his parker and was calculating in deep thoughts.

Shivaay looked at him and grinned as both father son had the same mission
but the path each took was way different. Shivaay wanted the clean smart
path whereas Vijay Singh took the cunning one.

Chapter: 22

The next few days Shivaay was extremely busy and Vaami hardly got time
to talk to him. She was busy arranging her room when Sunita knocked and
Vaami looked up saying “Arre Bhabhi, please come”

“How was the tour Vaami?”

“Great Bhabhi, though hectic but I got to spend some time with Shivaay”

“Huh, that’s good” Sunita smiled as she sat on the couch and Vaami
occupied the one opposite to her and told her about the incidences she came
across. Sunita clicked her tongue saying “It’s the same everywhere, we
think big cities with educated people would be different but it’s all the
same”

“We should do something about it Bhabhi”

“Yes, we should” Sunita agreed and bit her lips as she looked at Vaami
saying “I have filled the form Vaami”

Vaami was happy as she smiled saying “Really?” and Sunita shook her head
saying “You’re my inspiration Vaami, seeing you I took a step ahead”

“Does Soham bhaiya know?” Vaami asked and Sunita nodded saying “He
doesn’t care”

“He will” Vaami said as Sunita looked at her with hopeful eyes and Vaami
clicked her tongue saying “We will make him care for you, you wait and
watch”

Sunita smiled and they walked down to prepare for dinner when Vaami said
“Isn’t it strange we can’t sit with them and eat? The entire last month
Shivaay and myself ate together and it was fun, I mean we get to talk and
stuff”

“You know this house nah?”

“But didn’t you ever raise your concern before?”

“Who would listen?” Sunita questioned her back and Vaami nodded
“But you had a chance when Shivaay asked you to join them but you took a
step back”

“I chickened out seeing you all terrified” Vaami said as she rounded her
eyes and Sunita giggled seeing her gestures when Rashmi joined them and
they spoke about general things as it was time for dinner.

Sunita and Vaami were serving when Shivaay looked at Vaami and their
eyes spoke volumes. It was as if he too was missing Vaami’s company and
Vaami smiled in return which was noticed by Rashmi.

“You can atleast sit if not eat with us” Shivaay suggested gesturing Vaami
to sit next to him as Vaami nodded and gestured Sunita saying “Bhabhi you
too sit nah” and Sunita froze seeing her as Rashmi nodded giving her the
permission.

Vaami smiled mentally thanking Shivaay when Vijay Singh looked at

Vaami and said “Ab baith hi gaye ho toh kha bhi lo” and all eyes were on
him as Vaami who was zapped blinked twice as she asked “sachi papa”.

Shivaay looked at Vaami and then at Vijay Singh who nodded suppressing
his smile and Rashmi smiled whole heartedly as she herself served Sunita
and Vaami.

The age-old tradition was broken as Rashmi thanked god and looked at
Soham who was looking at her and smiled. Shivaay exhaled as he looked at
Vaami who gave him a sheepish grin and turned his attention to Vijay Singh
informing him about the final rally the next day.

The men dispersed as Vaami and Sunita looked at Rashmi who smiled
saying “You are bringing in happy changes Vaami” and Sunita smiled
agreeing.

The next week went by with Shivaay busy with the countdown and Vaami
got back to her designing when all of a sudden, she remembered Shikha and
called her.

“Hello?”

“Shikha Hi, this is Vaami”

“Hello Vaami” she greeted and smiled as they had formed a friendly bond
when Vaami asked “How are you?”

“Okay, hanging on though don’t know how long will I be able to hide”
“Huh” Vaami exclaimed as they spoke for some more time and hung up.
She thought of her and prayed for her wellbeing.

The next day was the actual election and the atmosphere at the Rajput house
was a tensed one. Security guards paced around and the men gathered in the
study were glued to the television set. The count was on and Rashmi too
was glued in front of the television as Sunita and Vaami sat across her.

Sachdev along with some other senior party leaders walked in as Vijay
Singh along with Shivaay and Soham joined them and Vaami looked at
Shivaay who looked calm and composed as his eyes met hers and he
winked making Vaami smile.

The final countdown was on as finally the LKP party who was leading was
declared the winner making Shivaay Singh Rajput the youngest CM of the
country.

Vijay Singh hugged his son as Soham and Sachdev patted his back
congratulating him when Shivaay who smiled thanking them walked
towards Rashmi who blessed her son feeling proud and Vaami whispered
congratulations when Shivaay gently hugged her thanking her.

The phone calls started congratulating him and people gathered outside
their house cheering for Shivaay with banners and his posters.

The official oath taking ceremony was to take place the next day and the
men left for the party office and Vaami who was overwhelmed spoke to
Rashmi and Sunita.

Chapter: 23

The next morning the Rajputs flew to Jaipur for the oath ceremony. The
Bansals greeted them while Ajay stepped forward and hugged Shivaay
saying “You make us proud”
“Thank you” he replied back as Vaami looked at both her favorite men with
love pouring threw her eyes.

They all gathered at the historic Albert Hall for the ceremony marked by the
presence of senior leaders and opposition figures.

Vijay Singh Rajput took the front seat as the LKP President and the former
prime minister were also present as they saw Shivaay Singh Rajput taking
the oath as the chief minister of Rajasthan.

Vaami along with the family occupied the second row as they proudly
witnessed the ceremony when finally, the ceremony ended and the press
reporters from across India gathered to interview Shivaay. I

t was one memorable event for her as they were later escorted to the CM
Office with leaders and dignitiries from various fronts greeting Shivaay.

“I will miss you” Sunita said emotionally as Shivaay and Vaami were to
shift to the CM house in Jaipur.

“Me too Bhabhi, but I will keep coming and you too can always come and
stay here with us”

“Huh” she said as she bit her lip as Soham awaited her near the stairways of
their private jet. The women hugged each other as Soham looked and Sunita
elevated towards the jet.

Shivaay looked at Vaami who too was all emotional saying “So?”
Vaami turned her gaze towards him as she nodded saying “Let’s go”
“ chalo” and moved towards the car awaiting them.

They entered the huge palatial house and looked at the army of servants
waiting for them. Vaami looked around as the head chef introduced himself
and his staff while Shivaay got busy in his study.

It was late in the evening that Shivaay finally walked out as Vaami looked
at his tired face saying “It’s a Sunday Shivaay. Atleast today you could have
relaxed a bit”

He smiled at her taking his place at the dining table, while he folded his
sleeves saying “huh, I fly to Delhi tomorrow morning and evening we have
a dinner to attend”

“What dinner?”

“Arvind Sisodia, the former CM’s house. It’s a ritual” he said as he gulped
the water from the glass and excused himself as his assistant awaited him.

Vaami looked at him unable to digest the new role of her husband as he
hardly had any time to talk to her. She clicked her tongue as she retired to
her room waiting for Shivaay to join her as she needed to talk to him. It was
late when Shivaay entered and saw Vaami stretched on the bed reading a
magazine.

“I leave at five in the morning” he informed Vaami who was staring at him
while he continued “We appoint out ministers tomorrow” he concluded as
he exhaled and took off his crisp white shirt entering the washroom.

Vaami’s gaze followed him as she was in deep thought wondering if she
should really talk to him knowing well how busy he is with his new role
and responsibility. She didn’t want to sound like a cribbing wife but she was
missing him and her mind debated when Shivaay joined her on bed.

She hugged him as her head lay on his chest and was about to speak as she
heard Shivaay’s light snores. She turned on her stomach looking at his
relaxed features and smiled switching off the bedside lamp and hugging
him to sleep.

The next day she visited her parent’s house and was happy for the fact that
they were in the same city now. She was speaking to them when Radhika
entered hugging her saying “Congratulations Mrs. CM”
“Oh, come on Rads” Vaami answered as Ajay and Rachna smiled looking at
the bond the girls shared.

“How does it feel? Staying at the CM House with the CM?” Radhika asked
excitedly

Vaami shrugged as she answered “well, the CM happens to be my husband

first and as for staying at the CM house, it’s still sinking in” and she
informed them about their dinner tonight at the former CM’s house.

“Sisodia’s wife is an amazing lady Vaami, you must learn a lot from her”
Ajay said and continued “Though Arvind SIsodia is cunning, his wife
Rukhmani Sisodia is a kind and gentle lady. She has started many NGOs
where we are trustees as well”

“Wow, how come we never knew papa” Vaami enquired with interest and
Ajay smiled answering “Vaami, one golden rule to be remembered: when
you help, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing”

All the women smiled at him as Vaami nodded her head understanding the
unspoken message her papa preached.

They spoke about general thing as Radhika and Rachna helped Vaami
decide upon the saree for the evening and she finally bid them bye as she
arrived at home and got busy pampering herself before she dressed for the
evening.

Shivaay entered as Vaami stood in front of the dressing mirror wearing her
neck piece when SHivaay took a step towards her and kissed her exposed
nape hugging her from behind when Vaami who was in a flirty mood said
“This is the first kiss from my CM”

“Huh, way too late, too bad will need to make quick amendments”
Shivaay replied faking seriousness making Vaami giggle as she turned in
his arms and Shivaay kissed her head hugging her as he said “You look
beautiful in sarees, you know”
“Huh, you just told me” she replied as they stood in silence enjoying each
other when SHivaay stepped back saying “We’re getting late”
She nodded as she watched Shivaay change and they made their way to the
Sisodia’s house.

Chapter: 24

Arvind Sisodia and his wife welcomed Shivaay and Vaami whole heartedly
as Vaami observed them to be in their mid-fifties. They made a charming
pair and were blessed with two sons, both of whom were studying at the
Doon School.

“It’s so nice to have such a young CM” said Rukhmani looking at Shivaay
with complete adoration as Arvind grinned saying “Yeah, the new young
India needs them more than us now”

Shivaay observed him adding “Not really, new India needs new thoughts.
They might belong to a thirty year old or a seventy year old, the mind and
heart has to be young and open”

“True” Rukhmani said while Vaami looked at them when Arvind asked “So
Vaami how are you enjoying your new role of CM’s wife?”

“Well” she smiled as she looked at Shivaay and continued “I am settling in”

“I have heard a lot about your designs Vaami, infact I have decided the next
time I buy a jewellery it will be one of your designs” Rukhmani
complimented making Vaami elated.

The dinner was a lavish spread as Arvind and Shivaay excused themselves
in the study leaving the women alone to chat when Vaami asked Rukhmani
about her NGOs.

“Well, I was always interested in educating children so decided to open

shelters and schools for them” she informed as Vaami appreciated her
gestures. They spoke about general things when the men walked out and
Shivaay along with Vaami took their leave.

In the car, Shivaay was occupied in his thoughts when Vaami who looked at
him said “She is an amazing lady”

Shivaay whose mind was preoccupied nodded his mind saying “huh”
making Vaami loose her cool as she groaned “Shivaay”

“Huh?”

“Is huh the only thing you going to speak?” she blasted leaving Shivaay
who was lost squeezed his brows asking “what?”

“Nothing” she exclaimed furiously looking out when Shivaay held her hand
asking “Sorry was occupied”

She turned her head and looked into his eyes as she complained “You’re
occupied all the time Shivaay these days”

“I am busy Vaami you need to understand”

“Understand what Shivaay? Not even for an hour have we sat together since
we are back from the campaign tour”

“I have work Vaami, I don’t go out partying” Shivaay replied furiously as

Vaami eyes watered and she looked out tracing her lips with her tongue.

Shivaay too exhaled as they reached home and Vaami rushed into her room.
Shivaay met his assistant briefing him about the next day and entered his
room to find Vaami curled up on the bed pretending to be asleep. He
changed and joined her as he touched her shoulders saying “I am sorry”

Vaami turned wiping her face with the back of her hand saying “Not done
Shivaay, initially you said you were busy scheduling, later campaigning and
now you are the CM, still you have no time for me”
Shivaay smiled at her innocence as he replied “it gets worse Vaami. Initially
I was responsible for my party and now it’s my state”

“How about me?” Vaami asked looking into his eyes and he cupped her
face replying “you are a part of me Vaami, my better half my world, how
can I not be responsible for you”

“But I miss you” she complained and he chuckled hugging her close as he
whispered “me too”

The next morning Shivaay and Vaami spoke about general things as
Shivaay left for the day when Vaami thought of calling Shikha. There was
no answer and Vaami thinned her lips wondering why wasn’t she answering
and left a message for her to call back.

The day was spent with Vaami designing new pieces and she was happy
with the results as she stretched and relaxed her muscles when her phone
rang. She smiled and answered “Hello”

“Hello Vaami”

“Wow, Sunita Bhabhi you sound happy, what happened?”

“Vaami, you won’t believe what happened?”

“What Bhabhi?” Vaami asked inquisitively

“Soham helped me solve an economic query, I just can’t believe it”

“Really? Soham bhaiya helped a genius?”

“He is double genius Vaami, infact he is a walking talking calculator. I was

actually surprised when I was studying and he entered the room and heard
me mumbling numbers and gave out an answer instantly”

Vaami smiled hearing Sunita so exhilarated saying “I am so happy for you

Bhabhi and I am sure he will come around”
“Huh, atleast he was cordial Vaami. I don’t expect much as long as we can
live like civilized humans” Sunita mumbled with hopes in her eyes.

“All will be fine Bhabhi, trust me”

“I do Vaami, I completely trust you” Sunita said and they spoke about the
family finally hanging up.

Vaami looked out of the French window feeling genuinely happy for Sunita
thinking how a small step forward can actually lead to many unopened
doors. She wished for Soham to accept Sunita and let out a small prayer.

Days passed with Vaami settling in her new role of CM’s wife and Shivaay
being all the more occupied with his cabinet meetings.

Chapter: 25

Shivaay and Vaami flew to Jodhpur to celebrate their first Diwali together
with the family. The atmosphere was vibrant as the house was decorated
with yellow and orange marigolds.

Vaami looked as the chief cook took down the order for the evening sweets
and Sunita helped with the ingredients. She was amazed at the quantity of
sweets being made when Rashmi smiled at Vaami as she sat on the royal
swing alongside her.

“Every Diwali this is the scenario at home”

“But ma so many sweets?” she asked in astonishment

“Yes Vaami, since Shivaay was a child it had been a tradition to give
homemade sweets to the poor. Once when he was six, his dadi ma had
caught him quietly sneaking out of the house at night and she followed him
to actually see what was the boy hiding in his small schoolbag. He went
behind in the servant quarters and emptied the bag containing dry fruits and
sweets to the children and that melted her heart and the tradition was
formed”

Vaami smiled hearing about Shivaay when Rashmi added “Every year we
give these children new clothes and sweets and Shivaay makes sure it’s the
best”

Vaami’s heart swelled with pride for Shivaay as every time she knew
something about him she was amazed.

It was the evening of Diwali eve when the family had gathered for the puja
and Rashmi took the lead while Sunita and Vaami helped. They were
dressed in authentic Rajasthani sarees and the men wore silk kurta. Vijay
Singh watched as the rituals were performed when Sachdev entered along
with Shivaay’s assistant.

They whispered to Shivaay who looked at Soham and gestured him to

follow him in the study.

“There is a stampede at the Mehrangarh Fort. Why wasn’t the security

tight? Why wasn’t the safety of the people taken into consideration?”
Shivaay questioned Soham who stood across his brother with a frown.

“I had told my people”

“Telling and tracking is different Soham, for God’s sake you are the tourism
minister. How could you be this irresponsible?”

“I was not irresponsible and stop shouting at me” Soham rambled looking
at Shivaay who was equally furious and said “Enough Soham, clean the
mess and be answerable to me in the media”

Shivaay left and Soham looked at him as he banged his fist on the table as
he called his people to enquire.

Shivaay personally went to the fort along with his team of medical help and
tried rescuing people and navigating them towards safer place. The media
was constantly covering the situation and the people were in awe of their
new CM who was personally helping his people.

Soham watched Shivaay and reached the sight to follow his brother’s
footsteps and it was early morning of Diwali when they reached back home.

Shivaay entered his room and found Vaami sleeping as he back hugged her
and kissed her ear, whispering “Happy Diwali” making Vaami smile in her
sleep while, she turned and hugged her husband greeting him the same.

“You’ll be home the whole day?” Vaami enquired as Shivaay smiled

holding her tight saying “huh, just media interview in the afternoon
regarding the stampede yesterday”

“Huh, I watched you helping people out. I am so proud of you Mr.CM”

Shivaay smiled as he looked at Vaami and sobered up saying “They are my

people Vaami and it was sheer ignorance on Soham’s part and couldn’t just
sit and let things happen”
Vaami smiled as he confessed.

Later in the day after the feast lunch Shivaay and Soham left for their office
to face the media when Vaami excused herself in her room and called her
parents. Just as she hung up she saw a missed call from Shikha and frowned
wondering why she gave a missed call.

“Shikha?”

“Vaami” she cried as she heard Vaami’s voice making Vaami anxious as she
quickly inquired “Shikha, what happened? Are you okay?”

“They found out Vaami, they found out and they killed my baby” she
sobbed as Vaami shut her eyes taking in the bitter truth when she enquired
“How?”

“I had to tell Viren and he informed his ma about it. She was furious and
forced me to visit the gynecologist. I was reluctant and suggested another
one which she agreed upon. We visited her and I don’t remember anything
after that Vaami, what happened? How did it happen, nothing. All I
remember is waking up with emptiness and the nurse informed me I had a
miscarriage” she sobbed her heart out and Vaami was at a loss of words to
console her.

She tried comforting Shikha and hung up promising to visit her as soon as
possible.

Vaami was shocked at the audacity of Shikha’s mother in law. Didn’t that
women have mercy on her own blood? She was a mother herself, wasn’t
she? How could she kill innocent babies for no fault of theirs? Her mind
was in a whirlpool as Sunita knocked and entered saying “Vaami, come
down”

She nodded looking away as Sunita came near her asking “You okay?” and
Vaami smiled sadly nodding her head.

“Just give me a few minutes” she said as Sunita made her way out leaving
Vaami alone with her thoughts. She freshened up and joined the family in
the living room.

The evening passed in a daze as she was oblivious to the celebrations

around her when Shivaay who was observing her walked towards her
asking “Vaami?”

He called her again “Vaami? You okay?” and she looked at him all lost as
she asked “Shivaay, I want to go to Kota tomorrow”

“Kota? Why?” he asked raising his brows

“Please don’t ask anything right now, trust me Shivaay just for a day, please
let me go”

“I am not stopping you Vaami but atleast tell me what has happened?”
Shivaay enquired and Vaami bit her lips as she said “I want to meet Shikha”
“Shikha? Viren’s wife?”

“Yes” she nodded and Shivaay enquired further “Why?”

“Just” she said turning her face away as Shivaay held her wrist and turned
her towards him asking “Why Vaami? Why do you want to meet her?”

Vaami looked at him with hopeful eyes thinking he might be able to help
and narrated the entire episode to him.

He listened attentively and grit his teeth as he said “What happened was
wrong Vaami but you have no proof whatsoever that Viren’s mother is the
culprit and moreover it’s their personal matter, you will not fall into this”

“But Shivaay”

“No Vaami” he said sternly and walked away leaving Vaami shocked.

Vaami looked at the flora fountain standing at the verandah, deep in her
thoughts as she was adamant she would punish the culprit with or without
Shivaay’s help.

Chapter: 26

The next day passed by with Vaami’s mind being preoccupied by the
incidence when a thought crossed her mind. She messaged Shikha to
enquire about her doctor’s name and Shikha messaged her Dr. Rakhi
Gupta’s name immediately.

Vaami googled Dr. Gupta and found out the required information and
immediately called her Shiru aunty who was a family friend cum
gynecologist.

“Hello Vaami”

“Shiru aunty hi, I need a favor”

“Yes, Vaami bolo, what happened? Are you alright?”

“I am alright aunty actually I want you to find some information for me,
Please”

“What information Vaami?” Shiru aunty enquired and Vaami narrated her
the entire scenario when Shiru aunty exhaled saying “Vaami, first of all, it is
unethical to do that and secondly no doctor will leak any kind of
information to anyone. What you asking for is illegal Vaami, I cannot go
against my ethics, I am sorry”

“But aunty I need to find out, please” Vaami pleaded

“No Vaami, you cannot” shiru aunty declined when Vaami inhaled saying
“Okay, thanks Shiru aunty” and hung up.

Her frustration was panting up as she had no way of knowing exactly what
had happened to Shikha and she was adamant to find the right information.

The next day they left for Jaipur when Shivaay noticed her mood but left
her alone giving her space. He didn’t want Vaami to get into any kind of
mess and knew what a big deal it was here in Rajasthan.

Shivaay left for his office while Vaami asked Ramji to drive her to her
parent’s place. She greeted her mama and immediately locked herself in her
room as she called Radhika.

“Hey babes” Radhika greeted Vaami with a smile asking “How was
Diwali?”

“Okay Rads, I need your help”

“Anytime Vaami tell me”

“Rads, you have your cousin staying in Kota, right?”

“Yes, Amar is studying for his CA Final there, why?”

“Rads, can you please pass me his number?”

“Sure, Vaami but why?”

Vaami told her about Shikha and Radhika was aghast hearing about it.
Though they had read about such things in the newspaper regularly but
seeing it for real was a different thing.

She immediately messaged Amar’s number to Vaami and was on her way to
meet her.

Vaami called Amar and introduced herself when Amar who was stunned
said “Ofcourse I know you Vaamidi, you’re Radhikadi’s friend and now our
state’s first lady”

Vaami smiled listening to it when she cleared her throat as she asked
“Amar, I need a big favor from you”

“Sure, tell me Vaamidi”

“Amar, listen carefully to what I am saying and please don’t let me down by
refusing to help, you’re my last resort”

Amar frowned as Vaami told him about Dr. Gupta and how illegally these
doctors practiced, though she didn’t name her friend but she wanted Amar
to find out if that doctor could be bribed.

Amar nodded as the next day he visited Dr. Rakhi Gupta and tried bribing
her asking if he could detect his child’s sex? Only then he would bring in
his wife the next day. Dr. Gupta initially tried faking genuineness and later
as she saw the piled currency notes nodded agreeing to help him. Amar’s
phone recording was on and he purposely made sure she agreed on sex
detection.
Amar called Vaami and informed her sending her the proof when Vaami
immediately called Dr. Gupta introducing herself as Vaami Shivaay Rajput.

The doctor was alert as she greeted Vaami and Vaami smirked as she asked
“I have something with me doctor, which can end your career”

“What?”

“You heard me, I know of everything that you do in that filthy clinic of
yours”

“Looks Mrs. Vaami you have mistaken. I am a well-respected doctor here in

Kota and I don’t deal with any malpractices”

“Really? Fine I shall leak this video I have of yours to the media and then
let media decide the course of action”

“What? what video?” she stammered

“Sex detection is a crime doctor, I hope you know that” Vaami said making
Dr. Gupta weak in her knees as she bit her lips pleading “Please don’t do
anything”

“I will not, but you need to tell me what exactly you did with Shikha
Roongta?”

Dr. Gupta started sweating as she was numb when Vaami called her name,
threatening “Either you tell me doctor or I leak this video”

“You’re blackmailing me” Dr. Gupta said making Vaami chuckle as she
replied “Answer me doctor”

“Shikha was brought to me in her 20th week of pregnancy by her mother in

law. She bribed me to check the sex of the baby and it was a female child.
Mrs. Roongta gave me the consent to abort the baby right away”

“And you killed the innocent baby?” Vaami asked dismayed

“She was adamant and I had to obey her” the doctor declared and Vaami
hung up.

She paced the room unable to digest the news when she gathered courage
and called the medical council informing them about the malpractices. She
was scared of the fallout but knew she was doing the right thing. Shikha
should get justice and the criminal should be punished was her motto now.

She waited for the medical council to take the next step as she informed
Radhika and Amar and walked out of her room bidding her mama bye and
was on her way back home.

Chapter: 27

The news spread like fire as the local media covered the medical council
checking the records of Dr. Rakhi Gupta who was supposed to be a well-
known gynecologist in Kota. She was furious as she had decided if any
records would be found, she would play dirty and leak all the information to
the media.

Vinod Singh Roongta furiously paced the living room as the media had
exposed his son and wife in a dirty light with captions like “The man
behind educational institutes teaches discrimination”
“Viren Singh Roongta, a murderer?” the TV screen had a panel of experts
discussing about the well-known doctor’s mishaps and he knew all this
would badly impact his institutes where he day in and day out promoted
girls as toppers all over.

Shikha quietly witnessed the commotion as her in-laws and husband paced
the living room worried and mentally thanked Vaami for bringing it all out.
They were unaware of Shikha being friends with Vaami and had thought
their name was highlighted because of the doctor.
Vijay Singh barged inside Shivaay’s office in Jaipur as he looked at his son
who was engrossed in watching the news yelled “Do you know whose
doing is all this?”

Shivaay turned his head as he looked at his papa and stared as Vijay Singh
yelled “Your wife. The same girl who has you twisted around her finger, the
same girl whom you could not control”

“Stop shouting papa” Shivaay stood as he continued “I will talk to her”

Vijay Singh who was all red with anger sat on the sofa as Sachdev entered
informing “Vinod Singh Roongta has threatened to leak all the files of
previous year, he is extremely furious”

Shivaay looked at him as he ran his hand over his hair and looked at his
papa saying “If only you would have not got into this dirty business of
money laundering, this would have been controlled easily”

“Don’t forget Shivaay, you’re here because of me, my party” he yelled back
at his son

“No, you’re wrong, I am here because of my own will. You succeeded in

bringing me from UK to here but after that it was all my own doing and I
am the CM of this state, you can do nothing to me, whatsoever”

“And also, the girl whom you have been belittling has a name, she is my
wife and I will hear nothing against her” Shivaay said as he gave a last look
to Sachdev and walked out banging the door.

Shivaay ordered his team for action as he wanted to control the damage
done and left for Kota immediately. He spoke to the senior editor and
stopped the media from disclosing further information and walked into
Vinod Singh Roongta’s house.

Viren looked as Shivaay entered saying “Shivaay?”

“I have stopped the media for further interrogation, but why Viren?”

He looked away as he was always fond of Shivaay and had accompanied

him on various rallies imparting knowledge to the youth.

“How could you support your mother in this?” Shivaay asked demanding an
answer but Viren stood quietly as Vinod Singh Roongta marched in.

“I will not leave your father Shivaay” he said furiously as Shivaay who
stood erect looked into his eyes saying “Don’t threaten me Vinod Singh, I
can do far more damage to you so you dare not”

Vinod Singh knew Shivaay and was well aware of his types who never
threatened for no reason. He stepped forward saying “I have stopped the
media for now but it’s a shame of all people you were caught in this dirty
act”

Vinod Singh looked down as Viren who was quietly witnessing it stepped
forward saying “I was told Shikha’s pregnancies were complicated, I mean”
he was at a loss of words as Shivaay put a hand on his shoulder and
marched out.

Vaami was glued to the TV when all of the sudden the news started being
diverted to other topics when her mobile vibrated. She looked at the caller
ID and said “Hello Shikha?”

“Vaami, thank you for trying but you forgot who your husband is”

“Means?” Vaami asked frowning

“Shivaay was here and he has stopped the media coverage” Shikha told
Vaami who closed her eyes not believing Shivaay could do that.
She hung up staring at the phone as tears leaked out and sat defeated.

She looked around the room, running her tongue on her lips and trying to
control her anger, frustration as it took days for her to plan justice for
Shikha and Shivaay, all he had to do was use his position and all her efforts
were wiped out in a couple of minutes.

She wiped her tears as she walked down the stairs leading to the living
room where she heard her father-in-law laughing with Sachdev as he said
“After all he is my blood, he had to save his father”

Sachdev looked up as he saw Shikha descending the stairs and Vijay Singh
snorted as he looked at Vaami commenting “Daughter in laws should know
their place, just because I agree on sharing the dining table doesn’t mean
they take a step forward”

Vaami looked down as Vijay Singh continued “Don’t you dare cross your
limits next time” and Sachdev held his hand to stop him as he looked
furious and they both walked out of the house leaving Vaami shattered.

She knew her father in law was a shrewd and cunning man but she had
hoped Shivaay would understand. She clicked her tongue as she had read
somewhere and knew how right it was ‘Power is always dangerous. Power
attracts the worst and corrupts the best’

Chapter: 28

It was late night when Shivaay walked inside the house and saw Vaami
staring outside the big French windows overlooking the well-maneuvered
garden. He stood next to her as he asked “Why didn’t you tell me Vaami?”

Vaami turned looking at Shivaay with sad eyes as she replied “what
difference Shivaay, you did what you had to”

“I had told you not to fall into it, still you went against my wishes”
“wishes?” she asked sarcastically smirking
Shivaay looked at her and clicked his tongue saying “I didn’t expect this
from you Vaami”

“And I didn’t expect this from you too Shivaay” she said furiously adding
“I was not aware I am married to a corrupt politician, I was not aware that I
am married to a coward son nor was I aware that I was married to a
heartless person” she blurted out with rage as Shivaay who closed his fist
controlling his anger looked into her eyes saying “If you think this low of
me, why are you even staying with me”

“Right, I shouldn’t be staying with you, I am leaving” she said waiting for
Shivaay to speak when he furiously yelled saying “Go, just leave” and
Vaami stared at him before running inside her room to pack her bags.

She threw in a few pair of clothes and walked out as she watched Shivaay
standing at the same place with his back turned towards her. She waited for
a few moments and finally left with tears streaming down her face.

Shivaay was aware of Vaami leaving but he refused to stop her as it hurt
him to think of how low she thought of him. He knew she was right in her
own way but he had responsibilities, responsibility towards his family, his
father whom no matter what he could not let down even if he was wrong,
something which he had committed to get the power. He gulped his sorrow
as he turned around to his empty mansion and knew it was a lonely battle
which he had to fight, and he knew he would fight as well as win.

At the Bansal house, Ajay and Rachna had just finished their dinner when
the doorbell rang. The helper went ahead to open when Vaami entered
carrying her suitcase. Ajay looked at Rachna who too was shocked seeing
Vaami and got up to greet her. Seeing Vaami’s tearful eyes Ajay asked
“What happened Vaami?”

“Kya hua hain? Vaami bolo?” Rachna asked shaking her arm as Vaami
looked into her eyes and sobbed hugging her mama.

Ajay offered her a glass of water and Vaami told them about the day when
Ajay asked “Why didn’t you tell us Vaami?” and Rachna added “And we
read about the doctor’s arrest but didn’t know it was you behind it”

“Shivaay stopped the media” she said looking at her parents as tears
cascaded her cheeks and Ajay held her hand explaining “Vaami, beta you
need to understand”

“Understand what papa? You cannot be in a position of power and destroy

the life of another person nah?” Ajay looked at his daughter and knew she
was right but he also understood Shivaay’s position when Rachna clicked
her tongue adding “I had always warned you Vaami, it’s difficult to live
with these politicians, but you were adamant”

Vaami looked at her mama displeasingly saying “Please mama” and Ajay
gave her a stern look saying “This is not the time to speak all this rubbish”

Vaami spoke to her parents and later retired to her room as she changed and
lay on the bed staring at the ceiling. Exhaustion took over and she drifted
off to sleep.

The next morning, she woke up looking around when she realized where
she was and why. She freshened up and joined her parents for breakfast
when Ajay asked “Shivaay had called to enquire if you were here. Your
mobile is switched off Vaami and please call him”

Vaami looked at him and bit her lips as Rachna said “Let her eat peacefully
first. I am sure she must have skipped her dinner last night as well”

Ajay nodded as Vaami drank the juice handed to her and looked at Rachna
saying “I can’t eat mama, I am not hungry” and got up walking towards her
room.

She lay on her bed defeated as tears clouded her eyes when she heard a
knock on her door and Radhika entered.

“Hey why is your phone switched off?”

Vaami looked at her phone and switched it on as Radhika sat next to her
asking “What happened Vaami?”

Vaami told her about how Shivaay had stopped the press when Radhika
nodded her head saying “You should have informed him prior Vaami, I did
suggest to you”

“But he would never let things come out”

“Maybe not like the way you wanted but he would have done something
Vaami, you know him”

“No Rads, he is a politician first, for him his image and his party is first, he
doesn’t care about anybody else”

“That’s not right Vaami and you know it. Shivaay is not that kind. He has to
be diplomatic in his dealings”

Vaami turned and looked at Radhika giving out a dry chuckle saying “you
seem to be blinded by him like most of the people”

“No Vaami, I am blinded by what you have told me about him” Radhika
said as she looked at her friend.

Radhika sat there for some more time as she tried talking sense to her when
Vaami got up saying “Let’s talk something else” and dismissed the talk as
they spoke about their general friends.

Days passed as the news had completely wiped off and the incidence was
completely forgotten as Shivaay who was in Delhi leading the council of
ministers requested the health and welfare minister to stay back after the
meeting was adjourned.

He enquired about the law pertaining to mother and child welfare whereby
educating himself as to where the actual problem lied. He got into the
minutest details and was happy with the laws formed but implementation of
the same was a farce.
Chapter: 29

It was almost two weeks since Vaami had spoken to Shivaay. She was
missing him but didn’t want to forgive him yet. On the other hand, Shivaay
decided to give her space as he too was occupied in forming new rules and
regulations along with his council members.

Vijay Singh Rajput was happy with the way his son had handled the
situation putting a complete stop and closing the matter within a matter of
minutes when one afternoon Shivaay entered, greeting his parents and
Soham.

He was happy seeing Sunita sitting along with them and smiled at her
acknowledging her presence.

“How is Vaami? Why didn’t you get her?” Rashmi asked

“Ah, she is at her papa’s house”

“Papa’s house? Why?”

“She was missing them” Shivaay said trying to hide the matter when Vijay
Singh grinned wickedly saying “She is where she belongs”

“Means?” Rashmi frowned as Sunita too stood upright knowing well there
was something fishy.

“Ask your son” he replied looking at Shivaay who exhaled saying “We had
a misunderstanding ma, leave it please”

“But Shivaay why didn’t you tell me”

“Tell you what ma. Anyways I am here to discuss a few things with you
Soham, please come in the study” he said looking towards Soham who
nodded and followed Shivaay.

Vijay Singh too left from the living room leaving Rashmi and Sunita who
were disturbed knowing about Vaami. “I will call her, Sunita please pass me
my mobile” said Rashmi and dialed Vaami’s number.

Shivaay discussed some new strategies they could implement to boost the
tourism industry and Soham listened attentively unlike him which Shivaay
noticed. After going through the slides, Shivaay looked at him saying “You
look better Soham”

He thinned his lips and smiled saying “Trying to be better” and Shivaay
smiled patting his back.

“Shivaay?” Soham asked apprehensively to which SHivaay looked at him

raising his brows

“How is Vaami?”

He smiled as he himself didn’t have the answer to it when Soham added

“She is a jewel Shivaay, I am thankful to her for indirectly directing my life,
for showing new directions to Sunita, I see the change in her”

“You see the change because you want to see it now Soham. It’s high time
she gets her place in your life” Shivaay suggested and both the brothers
smiled as they dispersed.

Shivaay met his ma and left for Jaipur.

At the Bansal house, Rachna sat sipping tea with her husband as she
expressed “I am worried about Vaami, Ajay”

“Huh, I too have noticed her being all quiet and indifferent”
“It’s almost fifteen days, how long will this last? Even Shivaay has not
approached her” Rachna said with worrisome face and Ajay nodded saying
“Yes, that’s what I was thinking”

“Shivaay is the matured one in them so I had expected him to clear the
misunderstanding but I feel it’s more to it than Vaami has told us”

Rachna nodded recalling Vaami’s talks telling them how she had tried
finding the truth for Shikha and how Shivaay had put a stop on everything
without considering her.

“She has not been eating also, all she does is locks herself in her room”

“Talk to her or ask Ruchi to talk” Ajay suggested when Rachna clicked her
tongue saying “Ruchi has her own demons to fight”

“Why what happened to her now?” Ajay asked frowning

“They are planning for a baby since a few months and still no luck, I
explained to her she should atleast give herself a year but no, you know
how anxious she is” and Ajay nodded

They say daughter’s parents are the luckiest ones, that once the girls are
married happily they can live their lives but the worry never ever ends.
Ajay thought just when Vaami joined them.

She smiled at her parents and sat across as Rachna offered her a cup of tea
and she sipped it as a bout of nausea hit her. She tried to hide it keeping the
cup back as Rachna noticed her every move. She waited for Ajay to walk
inside the house as she looked at Vaami asking “Why didn’t you tell me?”

“Tell you what mama?”

“I have been noticing you Vaami and my eyes can’t mistake what I am
seeing”
“Mama” Vaami exhaled as she said and continued “Mama, I just tested last
week and it’s positive but I didn’t want to say anything as I know how tense
you are for Ruchi and if she knows”

Rachna smiled taking Vaami’s hand in hers as she explained “Pagal, I am

not tensed for Ruchi because I am sure it will happen when it has to and I
am very happy for you. You don’t worry about Ruchi I will talk to her”

Vaami smiled looking at her when Rachna asked “Does Shivaay know?”

“No” she shook her head as she bit her lips continuing “Nobody knows as
yet and please keep it like that mama for now”

Rachna didn’t like the way she said but still nodded as she respected her
daughter’s decision and prayed things work out between her and Shivaay.

Ajay walked out in the verandah as he watched the mother daughter in deep
conversation just when Vaami’s mobile rang.

Chapter: 30

“Vaami?”

“Ji ma, pranaam” Vaami greeted politely

“Somebody has completely forgotten me after shifting to Jaipur” Rashmi

complained with a smile

“Nahi ma, it’s not like that”

“Then how is it Vaami?” she spoke as her tone turned serious

“Ma, I” Vaami looked at her mama staring when she exhaled as Rashmi
said “Next week is Gangaur and I want you here Vaami, no excuses and no
arguments, got it?”

Vaami closed her eyes as she thought for a moment and finally gave in
saying “Ji ma”

She spoke to Sunita who sounded really happy and Vaami was glad for her.

Rachna looked at Vaami waiting for her to speak when she told her about
her visit to Jodhpur for Gangaur. She was happy she would face Shivaay
and hoped for them to reconcile.

Vaami was packing her bag as a bout of nausea hit her and she sat on the
bed with a thud. She wondered how she would manage when her mobile
vibrated and she looked at the caller ID as her heart somersaulted.

“Hello”

“Vaami, how are you?” Shivaay spoke and a lump formed in her throat as
gulped her sob saying “Good”

“You don’t sound good” he asked frowning his brows as he could make out
she was controlling her tears

“I am good” she declared flatly

Shivaay exhaled as he said “Ma called and informed me you have to go

home for some puja”

“Yes Gangaur”

“Yeah, ah I am traveling to Jodhpur tomorrow and will pick you up in the

morning” he said as she bit her lips and nodded whispering “ok”
She hung up as she got back to packing and later walked down to speak to
her parents.
The next morning as Vaami did a few last-minute packing, she heard a
knock on the door and her papa entered.

“All done?” Ajay asked as he looked at his daughter

“Yes papa”

“Good, come Shivaay is down” he said as Vaami looked up and nodded.

“Vaami” Ajay said taking a step forward as he continued “For any men, it’s
the biggest dilemma when it comes to choosing people who has raised him
and between the woman he loves. Choosing one doesn’t mean he loves or
respects the other any less”

“Even after you know that the one you chose is wrong” she questioned

Ajay nodded saying “Yes at times, you have to. Not because you think they
can do no wrong but you’re forced to turn a blind eye. You have to give
your loved ones a chance Vaami, people make mistakes and people change”

Vaami nodded as Ajay picked up her bag and Vaami followed him down.
She looked at Shivaay who was busy talking to her mama and Ajay broke
the silence as he called “Rachna, serve the breakfast”

“Yes” she said as she excused herself from Shivaay and he turned around to
look at Vaami who looked pale and sad according to him.

They sat on the table as Rachna served Shivaay and Vaami, the strong
aroma of parathas made Vaami uneasy as she rushed towards the washroom
to throw up. Shivaay stood up following her as Rachna and Ajay followed.

“She will be fine, you please carry on” Rachna told Shivaay who was
clearly tensed as they waited for Vaami to step out. She walked out all
exhausted as she looked at all of them and tried smiling when tears
cascaded down her cheeks.
“Vaami?” Rachna asked as she hugged her daughter and she sobbed
hugging her back as Shivaay and Ajay stood stunned looking at them.

Shivaay had never noticed Vaami crying like this, even on their wedding
she hardly cried. It broke his heart to see her like that when finally, Vaami
stepped back wiping her tears with her hand and smiled at Ajay saying “I
will miss you and mama”

“we too Vaami, but are you okay?” he asked apprehensively when Rachna
gestured him to be quiet and they made their way towards the breakfast
table.

Rachna purposely served her a glass of orange juice and whispered a few
things to her before they took their leave. Ramji drove as Vaami sat behind
with Shivaay who kept stealing glances at her.

“You okay?” he asked

“Yes” Vaami replied looking out and later rested her head back, closing her
eyes.

“What’s wrong Vaami? You really look unwell” Shivaay asked with a
concern and Vaami turned her head looking at him whispering “Am okay”

“You’re not but if you don’t want to tell me that’s okay” he commented
ending the argument.

Vaami slept most of the way and they finally reached the Rajput Mansion
where Rashmi and Sunita greeted Vaami as Shivaay entered the study to
meet his papa.

Rashmi explained the ritual to Vaami and Sunita arranged for the mehndi
artist to adorn the hands of the women. It was a festive atmosphere as
Gangaur symbolized the celebration for spring harvest and marital fidelity.
It was celebrated by the womenfolk all over Rajasthan and the Rajput
Mansion celebration was the talk of the town.
It was evening when Vaami entered her room to change into a traditional
saree when exhaustion took over and she sat on the couch trying to catch
her breath. Shivaay entered as he saw Vaami and kneeled in front of her,
holding her hands asking “Vaami, please tell me what’s wrong?”

She opened her eyes and shook her head as she tried getting up saying
“Nothing just a bit tired”

“then rest” he suggested and she nodded exclaiming “No, I have to perform
the puja”

Shivaay exhaled as he got up taking a step back and handed her an

envelope. She looked at it asking “What is this?”

“See for yourself” saying he walked out and Vaami followed him down
after changing.

Chapter: 31

Images of Isar were made of clay for the festival of Gangaur as in the
Rajput families, permanent wooden images were painted afresh every year
by reputed painters called matherans and the puja started.

The Puja lasted till late hours and Vaami was exhausted and she excused
herself to her room when her mobile vibrated and she frowned at the
unknown number.

“Hello”

“Hello Vaami, this is Nitya Singh from Nanhi Kali, it’s a NGO formed to
advocate women and we are looking for someone to lead it” she waited for
a moment before Vaami spoke “lead?”

“Yes Vaami, we are looking for someone who is young and dynamic and
well you fit the bill plus you are our state’s first lady” she said with a smile.
“Ah, how can I help Nitya ji?”

“Can we meet tomorrow?” Nitya suggested and Vaami agreed as she too
was looking forward to step out of the house.

The day ended as Vaami thought of the NGO with ideas popping in her
mind even before she joined hands with it. She stretched as she lay on the
bed and her eyes fell on the envelope that Shivaay had handed her earlier.

She opened it and read the letter as she felt overwhelmed. It was an official
letter stating the implementation of the Abortion Act, 2019 which stated no
women would be forced for abortion unless it was medically advised and
before the procedure the consent of the women was needed provided she
was in a sound health.

She knew Shivaay had worked on this as a way to help women like Shikha
who were forced to abort and she felt grateful. Her mind was occupied with
all sorts of ideas as she thought this Act along with the NGO where she
would help the little unprivelaged girls supporting their education and
funding it.

She reread the letter and smiled as Shivaay walked in and Vaami looked at
him with grateful eyes.

“Thank you” she said and Shivaay shrugged saying “It’s the least I could
do”

“Are you feeling better?” Shivaay asked with concern as he sat on the other
side of the bed and Vaami nodded saying “yes”

Shivaay smiled looking at her when Vaami told him about the call from
Nitya Singh and Shivaay clicked his tongue saying “You should lead it
Vaami, it’s a good cause.”

“You don’t have a problem?” she asked apprehensively as she had thought
of asking him before joining as she did not want any issues later.
“Why will I have a problem?”

“You had a problem with what I did earlier” she stated as Shivaay looked at
her intensely replying “I had a problem with the way you did it Vaami and
not with what you did. By the way Dr. Gupta no longer practices”

“But still Shikha lost her baby” she argued and Shivaay exhaled running a
hand over his hair.

“I can only do so much Vaami, we can’t change people’s thoughts

overnight”

“You are a CM, you can”

“I am a CM Vaami, not a magician” he exclaimed and stepped away

walking towards the attached balcony.

Vaami stared at his silhoutte thinking of their talk when sleep took over.
Shivaay stood leaning at the railing looking up at the sky thinking of the
hard work he had put in to bring out the changes concerning women’s
health and rights, fighting against the other members and trying convincing
the central members for implementing the act.

He exhaled as exhaustion took over and walked inside the room and saw
Vaami fast asleep as he smiled and joined her, relieved that at least she was
with him after a long separation.

The next morning Vaami met with Nitya Singh who was one of the trustees
of Nanhi Kali. She briefed Vaami about the things they did there and Vaami
was way too impressed. She looked around seeing the small girls who were
learning things and young ladies who were hand crafting beautiful things. It
was a great cause and she immediately agreed to join hands with Nanhi
Kali.

She suggested a few changes and Nitya Singh invited her to the first
meeting taking place in a few days.
Vaami departed on a happy note and entered home as she told Sunita about
it. Sunita was happy hearing about it when Rashmi joined them asking
“What are you two so excited about?”

“Ma, I am leading Nanhi Kali, it’s a NGO for girls”

“huh” she exclaimed continuing “you shouldn’t get involve in these things
Vaami, you know what mess you created last time”

“Mess?” Vaami asked agast.

“Yes, thanks to Shivaay and his connections, things were controlled,

otherwise”

“Otherwise what ma?” Vaami asked as Sunita looked at her and Rashmi
sternly looked back saying “Otherwise things would have taken a bad turn”

Rashmi showed her a palm asking her to stop when Vaami tried to argue
and said “Vaami, in this house women don’t cross their lines, which you
have done quite a few times, I suggest you stay in your limits as Shivaay’s
wife and not try stepping the boundary all the time” and walked away.

Vaami stood flabbergasted as Sunita touched her shoulder saying “These are
papa’s words Vaami, I don’t think she meant what she said”

Vaami looked at Sunita with sad eyes asking “There are so many innocent
girls suffering all the time Bhabhi, if we as leaders don’t take a stand than
who will?”

Sunita nodded agreeing as Vaami spoke her mind with fear “What if we
give birth to girls, will they do the same with us?”

Sunita looked at her with shock and bit her lips saying “Girls are not
welcome here Vaami, ma herself has gone through an abortion before Suhas
was born”
“What?” Vaami asked and Sunita nodded saying “Yes, she had told me
when Suhas and me had just returned from our honeymoon hoping I would
be carrying their heir. But unfortunately, I had not conceived”

Vaami was feeling uneasy with a certain fear enveloping her as she excused
herself and walked towards her room.

Chapter: 32

“How can you implement such laws Shivaay? Have you thought of the
consequences?” Vijay Singh asked as he read the new implementation of
law

“I can and I will” Shivaay declared as Vijay Singh sighed commenting

“That girl has washed your brains. Pay attention to important things and not
such petty ones”

“If killing innocent lives is petty than I petty your thinking papa” he said
and walked away leaving Vijay Singh furious.

Shivaay left for Delhi as he had a cabinet meeting to attend and Vaami
stayed back as she had a meeting with Nitya Singh.

She entered the office of Nanhi Kali and met the trustees and volunteers.
She was heartily greeted and she felt special as one of the trustee Mrs.
Udwadia commented “You are my lucky girl, you joined and we have an
enormous amount being donated to our organization. How good can it get?”
she smiled looking at Vaami as every member was extremely happy as
Nanhi Kalli had never received such a big amount as donation earlier and it
would be a big help for them.

Vaami was happy as the meeting went well and they decided to approach
small villages around and start spreading awareness. They decided to
campaign against ‘Beti Bachao Beti Padhao’ and Vaami promised to get
help for building new schools around specially for girls.
She was lost in her thoughts as her phone vibrated as she answered “Hello
mama”

“Hello Vaami, how are you beta?”

“I am good, in fact very happy”

“Arre wah” Rachna smiled as she was glad hearing Vaami happy after a
long time

“Yes, mama and I want papa’s help”

“Help?”

“Huh, I have joined Nanhi Kali and I want papa to sponsor our first school”

“Really? That’s a great cause Vaami, we would love to help in whatever

way we can”

“Thanks mama” Vaami smiled hearing her supportive mama when Rachna
added “Infact, I can even spread a word in my Lion’s club”

“Please do that and once again thanks mama”

“You are always welcome Vaami” Rachna smiled feeling proud of her little
girl.

Vaami felt contented as she got down and entered the Rajput Mansion
where she met Sunita.

“How was the meeting?”

“Good bhabhi, we have decided to spread the awareness around and open
new schools for girls”
“That’s great” Sunita said as both walked in with a smile when Vijay Singh
and Rashmi looked at them from the living room.

“When are you leaving for Jaipur Vaami?” Rashmi asked

“Tomorrow ma” she answered as she saw her father in law giving her a
furious look saying “Stop this brainwashing business of yours”

“Ji?” Vaami asked

“Because of your craziness, we are losing support of our people. As

Rajput’s daughter -in- law you are just to be seen and not heard. Enjoy the
luxury you are getting as Shivaay’s wife and stop interfering in other’s
business” Vijay Singh commented as Vaami bit her lips saying “It’s not
craziness papa and it’s our business to stop cruelty and not others”

“Vaami, how dare you talk back” Rashmi yelled at Vaami when she shook
her head continuing “Which era are you’ll living in ma? You worship a
goddess yet you are okay to kill your daughter? You want your sons to
marry a girl, still you don’t think before ending her life? What kind of
hypocrisy is this?”

“Shut your mouth and remember, Shivaay has not married Vaami, he
married Ajay Bansal’s daughter who helped him win elections and now he
has won so you are of no use to him. If wanted you will be discarded.”
Vijay Singh ruthlessly warned her and walked away.

Vaami was stunned hearing him as Sunita stepped ahead placing her hand
over her shoulder as she whispered “Let’s go Vaami?”

She looked at Sunita blankly as they climbed towards her room. She sat on
the sofa with a thud as she asked “Is it true?”

“what?” Sunita asked and Vaami looked at her with questioning eyes asking
“Shivaay married me for the influencial contacts?”
Sunita looked at her and bit her lips when Vaami got up and started packing
her bag.

“Where are you going Vaami?” Sunita asked as she watched Vaami packing
her bags
“Home”

“But you are flying tomorrow”

“No I changed my plan” Vaami answered and zipped her bag close walking
towards the foyer.

Vaami left with Ramji and Sunita immediately called Shivaay informing
him about Vaami. Shivaay called Vaami but she refused to answer and
spoke to Ramji who assured him about Vaami’s safety and that they were on
their way to Jaipur.

It was late evening when Shivaay paced the corridor impatiently as he

called Ramji again asking “Why haven’t you reached as yet?”

“Ji, woh Vaami bibi is already at her mother’s place”

“What? Why did you take her there?”

“She insisted hukum” Ramji answered politely and Shivaay exhaled as he

had expected Vaami to come back home to him.

Chapter: 33

Vaami entered home surprising Ajay and Rachna who were seated at the
dining table. They got up asking “Vaami? What happened?”

Vaami walked sternly towards Ajay as she asked “Papa, did you help
Shivaay win the seats here in Jaipur?”

“Vaami, what’s wrong beta?”

“Please answer papa”

“Yes, our high net worth clients were introduced to their party and they
were impressed by him and so favored him”

Vaami looked away as she gave out a sarcastic smile saying “And it helped
him win”

“So?” Ajay asked frowning not knowing why Vaami was asking him such
questions when Rachna who was observing Vaami asked “What happened
Vaami”

“Ma, according to the great Vijay Singh Rajput, my work as Ajay Bansal’s
daughter is done and I can be discarded now”

“What?” both Ajay and Rachna asked in unison and Vaami told them
everything that happened in Rajput House.

“Does Shivaay know?” Ajay asked after a few minutes

“No” Vaami replied flatly and Rachna noticed the fatigue on her face as she
asked her to freshen up and join them for dinner.

Vaami did so when Rachna turned towards Ajay saying “You should talk to
Shivaay, it’s not good for Vaami to take so much of stress”

He looked at her and nodded saying “Does he know about it?”

“I don’t think so” Rachna replied as they saw Vaami walking towards them
to join them for dinner.

After dinner, Ajay who was seated opposite Vaami and Rachna in the living
room, smiled as he said “I hear congratulations are in order”

“huh?” Vaami asked looking at him while Rachna smiled side hugging
Vaami making her realize what they were talking about.
Vaami smiled sadly looking at him when Ajay got up and sat next to Vaami
and cupped her face saying “I can’t believe my little girl is going to be a
mama, I am so happy”

“Thanks papa” she replied with a smile when Rachna asked “Have you told
Shivaay?”

Vaami shook her head replying “No”

“Why?” Ajay asked when Vaami looked down, biting her lips as she said
“Papa, I have realized the mentality of Rajput family, they are no different
from others. I fear what happened to Shikha might happen with me and I
don’t want to take any chances with my baby” she explained as a tear rolled
down her cheek and Rachna comforted her.

“Shivaay is not like that Vaami, even you know that” Ajay argued when
Vaami who wiped her tear argued back saying “Then why did he remove
the charges from Roongtas? Why was the case closed? Why was the media
coverage stopped overnight?”

“Vaami, you are not understanding beta. Vijay Singh was involved and he
had to save his father’s reputation”

“His father is against girl child, what if he supports him in that too?”

“He won’t” Ajay answered and Vaami looked up asking “How can you be
so sure?”

“Vaami, we know him. And more than us you know him beta. Don’t let one
decision of his overrule all your decisions. His love and concern for you is
clearly visible. Don’t deny him his rights, that’s all we ask”

Rachna too shook her head agreeing with Ajay as Vaami looked at them and
was engrossed deep in her thoughts as they dispersed for the night.
Vaami lay awake in her bed deep in her thoughts when she finally picked
her mobile dialing Shivaay’s number.

Shivaay was engrossed planning for ‘Youth Matters’ his foundation, which
was doing great as a result of which employment and literacy rate had
increased all over Rajasthan when his phone buzzed and he looked at the
caller ID softening his gaze.

He got up walking out in the verandah as he answered the phone

“hello Vaami”

“Hi” she replied back and both were quiet for some time before Shivaay
broke the silence asking “How are you?”

“Okay, better”

“huh”

“how are you?”

“how can I be without you?” he said as Vaami felt a pang in her heart and
knew she was missing him. The conflict between her head and heart was
making her restless as she exhaled deeply when Shivaay said “I thought you
would come back home?”

“Shivaay I” she gulped the fear formed in her throat as she thought of
Shikha and closed her eyes saying “Shivaay I have something to tell you”

Shivaay waited for her to speak as she continued “Before I tell you, let me
warn you Shivaay, I am not a helpless woman who would let things happen
to her without her consent and I will never ever do something I don’t
believe in and You Can’t Force Me”

Shivaay frowned not understanding what she was trying to say when he
asked “What is happening Vaami and what can’t I force you? You are not
making any sense”
Vaami exhaled as she blurted “I am pregnant”

Shivaay who was frowning, softened his features as he asked “what?”

“I am pregnant Shivaay” she repeated and Shivaay grinned from ear to ear
as he couldn’t believe his ears and before he could comment Vaami said
“But like I warned you, I will not go for sex detection and nor will I do
anything to my baby”

Shivaay lost his colour as he heard Vaami and said “You think I would force
you to abort if it’s a girl?”

“Yes, knowing you and your family anything is possible” she said sternly as
her accusation hurt Shivaay who closed his fist firmly trying to control his
anger and disappointment.

Finally, he smiled sarcastically as he said “You don’t have a high opinion

about me sadly, do you? And don’t forget about the new Act passed,
nothing will happen to my child whether a boy or a girl they will be
protected and cherished all their life”

Vaami was stunned hearing him as she whispered “Thanks”

“Thanks to you Vaami for giving me such wonderful news and take care of
yourself” he said hanging up and he ran his hand over his hair as there was
a havoc of emotions racing his mind right now.

Happiness, for there would be a little one running around and sadness as his
wife thought so low about him.

Vaami too lay closing her eyes as Shivaay’s words ran through her and the
hurt was evident clearly. She knew her words had hurt him but her mind
kept warning her and Shikha’s picture kept fearing her when she finally
drifted off to sleep.

Chapter: 34
The NGO’s work kept Vaami busy the coming days and she got back to her
jewelery designing to occupy her empty nights. She was missing Shivaay
but the fear stopped her and Shivaay on the other end, purposely kept his
distance from Vaami as he wanted her to relax and not stress as he knew
seeing him she would be restless.

He had to travel to Jodhpur for work when he decided to visit his parents.
He entered and saw the family gathered for dinner and Rashmi smiled
noticing him.

“Shivaay?” she called when all eyes went on him

“Pranaam ma” he greeted her and smiled at others when Rashmi urged
Sunita to serve him as well.

He sat and was happy to see the equation between Soham and Sunita
changing as Soham no longer sat on the edge and joined the family sitting
next to Sunita.

It was after dinner that Shivaay who was seated next to Soham cleared his
throat, looked at his ma saying “Ma, Vaami is expecting”
Rashmi looked at him and smiled asking “Really?”

“Huh” he confirmed as Sunita and Soham congratulated him while Vijay

Singh looked at him saying “Chalo, our heir will be here soon”

“Heir or heiress papa” he said sternly at which Rashmi cleared her throat
sensing the tension said “Arre, how is her health? Why did you leave her
alone at home Shivaay?”

“She is at her papa’s place” he informed when Rashmi raised her brows and
Shivaay continued looking at Vijay Singh “Thanks to him, she fears the
repetition of Roogtas to happen here”

Rashmi looked down and Sunita bit her lips when Soham asked “How can
she even think like that?”
“Ask him” Shivaay replied Soham, gesturing towards Vijay Singh and got
up bidding everyone goodbye.
He left for the helipad and flew back to Jaipur.

The next day, Ajay who was pacing the living room picked up the cordless
and dialed Shivaay’s number as he thought it was high time he needed to
intervene.

The phone was unanswered as Shivaay was busy talking to his assistant
regarding some issues and was engrossed meeting the concerned people. He
left for his office when on the way, he checked his mobile and saw the
missed call from the Bansal residence.

He called back and the phone was answered by Vaami who was relaxing in
the living room after her breakfast.

“Hello?” she answered

“Vaami, how are you” Shivaay asked

“Good”

“You called?” he asked hoping for the positive reply when Vaami answered
“No, I did not”

“Oh, okay! Someone called from the same number so was wondering” he
said when Vaami sighed and looked around and murmered “Just a moment”
and spotted her papa asking him to take the call.

Ajay looked at Vaami who left from there and answered the call saying
“Hello”

“Hello papa” Shivaay greeted his father-in-law politely

“SHivaay, how are you?”

“Good”

“Ah, SHivaay it’s been long you haven’t come home, why don’t you join us
for dinner tonight?”

Shivaay thought for a minute and finally replied “Sure, will see you” as he
thought it was high time he had to have a word with Vaami.

Ajay informed Rachna about inviting Shivaay and Vaami looked around as
she bit her lip and Rachna walked towards her asking “So, what does
Shivaay like? Anything special?”

Vaami stared at her as Rachna who gently touched her cheek said “Vaami,
you’re hurting yourself and him beta, let it go. Trust him, he is not what you
portray”

“He is not mama, but what about his family? Do you know even ma had to
abort her baby before Suhas bhaiya was born?”

“Who told you that?” Rachna asked shockingly

“Sunita Bhabhi” Vaami replied and Rachna exhaled as she clicked her
tongue saying “Nothing will happen and as it is they are in Jodhpur and you
will be here in Jaipur”

Vaami nodded and excused herself as she saw her bestie Radhika entering.
They hugged each other as Radhika congratulated Vaami and they sat
chatting, catching up on their friends just when Vaami’s phone vibrated and
she answered it.

“Congratulation Vaami, I am so happy for you and Shivaay”

“Thank you, Sunita Bhabhi” Vaami smiled and replied as Sunita enquired
about her health and Vaami filled in the details. They spoke for some time
when Rashmi came on the phone and greeted Vaami. She greeted back
politely when Rashmi asked “Vaami, you should be with Shivaay”
“Huh” she hummed as she did not know what to reply when Rashmi
softened up saying “Shivaay has always been with you Vaami and he will
always stand for you, you know that right? What happened to me years ago
will never repeat with you, that is the only assurance I can give you. Just a
request, go back home Vaami, Shivaay misses you though he doesn’t say
but I can read his eyes”

Vaami was surprised to hear her mother in law all softened up and
wondered how one woman so conveniently possess dual personalities. At
times, she behaved like Vijay Singh’s perfect wife and the other, she melted
as Sohams and Shivaays mother. She smiled and got back to Radhika and
her mama who were discussing the evenings menu.

Chapter: 35

It was a hectic day for Shivaay as he finally left his office and arrived at the
Bansal residence. He entered and was greeted by Ajay who lead Shivaay to
the study.

“Great job Shivaay on implementing various schemes, I feel it has really

motivated the youth”

“Thanks” he smiled humbly as he said “I am working on saving schemes

for girls where every girl child born would have an automated account and
a particular amount would be deposited in the banks for their education and
on completing their graduation they would be allowed to withdraw the
entire amount along with the interest”

“And that would help them for their wedding” Ajay added being highly
impressed with Shivaay’s thoughts and the work he had done so far for their
state of Rajasthan.

“Yes, I was thinking on the same lines, but approval from the FM is a task,
though I have already met Mr. Goyal from Bank of Rajasthan who has
promised to offer good rates to the government”
“Huh, I know him Shivaay if you say I can push it forward”

“No papa, not right now, will let you know if needed” Shivaay said and
Ajay nodded knowing him.

Ajay offered him a drink and they made their way towards the living room
when Ajay stopped and turned towards Shivaay saying “I am sorry Shivaay,
I don’t know what has got into Vaami”

Shivaay smiled saying “Please don’t apologise,I know her well papa, right
now it’s her fear talking but I will take care of it”

“Ah, is she in her room?” Shivaay asked as Ajay nodded and Shivaay made
his way up.

Shivaay knocked at the door and Vaami who was busy examining herself in
the mirror said “Come in”

She tried pulling her kurta from back wondering if she had started showing
and was creasing her brows with her hands wandering on her flat tummy
when Shivaay who stood observing her smirked commenting “Doesn’t
show as yet”

“huh” Vaami hummed with her eyes still focused on her stomach
immediately freezed as she realized she was not alone in her room.

She looked up and saw Shivaay grinning at her through the mirror and
consciously straightened her kurta biting her lips as she turned to face
Shivaay.

Shivaay took a step forward, standing in front of Vaami and cupped her
cheeks gently pulling her forward as he kissed her forehead saying “I
missed you”

Vaami tried controlling herself as she tried taking a step back when Shivaay
said “Stop running away Vaami”
“Shivaay I..” she tried framing the words when Shivaay held her hand
saying “Don’t Vaami, what’s happened has happened, let’s focus on our
future”

“But I am scared Shivaay” she finally expressed her fear and Shivaay
smiled asking “Do you trust me even a bit?”

“Shivaay, I”

He did not allow her to speak and intervened asking “Yes or No Vaami?”

“Yes” she shook her head as he continued “I promise Vaami, I will not let
anything happen to both of you. Please trust me”

“I do Shivaay but” Vaami whispered shaking her head when Shivaay

thinned his lips saying “I won’t push you Vaami, take your time. Come
home when you’re ready”

She shook her head as she said “I am sorry” and Shivaay raised his brows
asking “for?”

“For blaming you”

“Huh, that you did and I was hurt too and you will have to make it up to
me” he said and smirked as Vaami looked at him and smiled saying “I will”

Shivaay traced her lips with his thumb as he leaned forward to kiss her
when they heard a knock on the door and he dropped his hand releasing a
sigh while Vaami composed herself and opened the door.

“bibiji aapko niche bula rahe hain” The maid servant informed them when
Vaami took a step back and followed Shivaay down.

They joined Ajay and Rachna who were happy to see the couple in a merry
mood and Shivaay appreciated Rachna for the delicacies. They discussed
the general state of affairs and Shivaay appreciated Vaami’s views on
certain matter.

Rachna was happy to see them treating each other equal and it was almost
time for Shivaay to leave when Vaami cleared her throat grabbing Shivaay’s
attention saying “I am coming with you” making Shivaay grin with
happiness and Ajay and Rachna chuckled seeing them.

Rachna instructed her a few things and Vaami nodded as she exclaimed
“Please mama, I am pregnant not an invalid. I don’t need to rest all the
time”

“Huh” Rachna said as Shivaay intervened saying “Please don’t worry, she
will be fine” and Rachna nodded as they took their leave.

Shivaay drove the car asking Ramji to follow in another one as he grinned
looking at Vaami saying “Thank you”

“for what?” she asked as she too felt happy

“For coming back home” he answered looking at her.

Vaami bit her lips and looked at him when she asked “Shivaay can I ask you
something?”

“Huh, ask” he said as he concentrated on the road ahead and Vaami turned
towards him asking “Did you marry me forcibly?”

“What?” he asked as he couldn’t understand her question and frowned

asking again “What do you mean?”

Vaami exhaled as she told him about the scene created at the Rajput house
and Shivaay gripped his hands tight as he clicked his tongue saying “I
married you because I liked you Vaami, there was no other motive from my
side. I was very clear from the start. Bansal or no Bansal would not have
mattered to me”
Vaami smiled happily as she knew it but wanted to hear it from Shivaay’s
mouth when he asked “Why didn’t you clear it earlier? Why now?”

Vaami looked at him sheepishly answering “I wanted to but I was too

furious Shivaay. At times, all I wanted to do was come running back to you
and other time I hated you. I don’t know what was happening to me”

Shivaay smirked seeing her confess and commented “Your mood swings
started already”

“Huh” she pouted as she answered making Shivaay chuckle

They reached home and Vaami was welcomed by the army of staff as they
greeted her politely making her feel warm.

Once they entered their room, Vaami looked around when Shivaay back
hugged her kissing her nape as he whispered “How about a surprise?”

She turned excitedly facing him as she asked “What?”

“Holiday to UK for a week”

“Wow, babymoon?” she yelled happily as Shivaay raised his brows asking
“Babymoon?”

“Yeah, pehle toh honeymoon nahi hua, so now with the baby on the way,
babymoon”

SHivaay laughed at her explanation as he said “Yes madam, babymoon in

that case”

Vaami was over the moon thinking of it when Shivaay informed “I leave for
Delhi tomorrow morning and will be back by evening. I will get the
arrangements done for tomorrow night, is 24 hours good enough for
packing?”

“More than enough” she answered hugging him.

He kissed her head asking “Have you consulted a obst?”

“Yes, Shuru aunty” she replied softly feeling guilty of not informing him
earlier and felt his breath as he exhaled asking “all okay?”

“Yes, all okay” she confirmed as she looked around feeling at home and
finally her mind and heart were at peace.

Chapter: 36

The next day Shivaay was busy with his cabinet meet and his biggest task
of FM approval was granted. He was happy as he allotted work to his
people and quickly made his way towards the helipad as they had a flight to
Heathrow in a few hours.

He exhaled leaning back on his seat as his PA informed him about the
press meet and Shivaay nodded and the people from Rajasthan Times
stepped ahead greeting him.

He had called for the press conference in the aircraft as he didn’t want to
postpone breaking the news to his people and in no circumstances wanted
to postpone his trip to UK.

“Good Evening Sir” the young journalist greeted Shivaay who smiled
warmly at her easing her tension as he greeted back and the interview began
with cameramen sprawled over the tiny aircraft.

“First of all, congratulation on achieving your set targets for the state of
Rajasthan in the first quarter”

“Thank you. It’s not me who should be taking the credits it’s my people
who have stood by me, so thanks to them” Shivaay spoke humbly making
everyone around smile.
“What are your targets for the next quarter?”

“They are not targets, they are policies which we wish to implement and I
hope our people would abide to it. The State of Rajasthan has decided that
every girl child born would be eligible to an automated account whereby
every month from her birth till she is a graduate would be credited with a
sum of five hundred rupees. This fund would be exclusively funded from
the CM Relief’s fund”

“That’s excellent news Sir, but why only girls?”

“Do I need to answer that question? Our state has the worst ratio of sex
discrimination and to encourage women education and girl rights, this step
has been taken. It’s a humble request to our people, educate your daughters,
give them their rights and you will educate the nation”

The journalist was highly impressed as she smiled asking “Sir, you’re the
youngest CM and you are so inclined towards girl’s rights, what motivated
you to think towards them?”

Shivaay smiled as Vaami’s face came in front of him and he answered “My
wife, she was the biggest motivation for me. Though I knew the unfortunate
scene but to bring it on the priority list was her idea, she is the chair person
for Nanhi kali and I wish to support her in her future endeavors for the
betterment of our people”

“Thank You Sir, a last question, if you may permit?”

“Sure” he nodded

“The mindset of our people here is a generational curse, what message

would you give the youngsters?”

Shivaay exhaled as he thought answering “It’s up to us to break the

generational curses, when they say ‘it runs in the family’ you stand tall
telling them ‘this is where it runs out’”
He smiled answering as he continued “Time changes and so do we, then
why stick to the age-old thoughts”

The interview ended on a happy positive thought as Shivaay embarked the

aircraft as the car waited to escort him home.

Vaami was all engrossed in packing as she was excited when Ruchi called
“Not fair Vaami, you are coming till UK and not Antwerp”

“Huh, maybe you can come and see us”

“Huh, let me see” Ruchi thinned her lips as she said and they spoke about
general things, with Ruchi giving her some shopping tips and Vaami hung
up. Immediately, her phone vibrated again and she shook her head releasing
her breath and smiled as it was her papa.
“Hi papa”

“hello Vaami, so all ready?” Ajay asked with a smile

“Yes papa, almost done”

“Huh, did you see Shivaay’s interview on the TV?”

“No papa was busy, why anything important?” Vaami asked with a frown

“No, nothing to worry but worth watching” he said with a smile and Vaami
switched on the TV as the repeat telecast was running.

She sat engrossed watching Shivaay speak and felt her heart swell as he
named her for motivating him towards women’s rights. She got emotional
as she bit her lips just when Shivaay walked into their room.

She stood up watching him and Shivaay asked “what?”

Vaami hugged him as Shivaay held her asking again “What happened
Vaami?”
“Shivaay, thanks for everything” she answered and Shivaay frowned as
Vaami elaborated “I just watched your interview” and Shivaay smiled as he
hugged her back.

They finished off their last minute packing as they were escorted towards
the aircraft when Shivaay informed “We are staying in Brighton, I don’t
want to be in the public eye”

And Vaami nodded agreeing to him. It was a relaxed flight as Vaami slept
the entire way and Shivaay who was up reading kept glancing at the
glowing face of his wife.

It was almost time for landing when Vaami woke up and watched Shivaay
who was engrossed in reading asked “Shivaay? How much more time”

“An hour more” he replied asking “You okay?”

“Yeah, just a bit tired”

“Tired? Madam you slept the entire flight and you still tired”

“Haa toh” she said pouting and Shivaay grinned nodding his head.

They landed at the Heathrow Airport and were quickly escorted out from
the VIP gate and saw a car waiting for them at the arrivals. Shivaay and
Vaami sat as she frowned asking “Our bags?” and SHivaay smirked
answering “Some perks of being the CM, they will follow don’t worry” and
Vaami smiled

The drive to Brighton was a beautiful one as it was spring and the flowers
bloomed making the countryside look picturesque. They reached Brighton,
a beautiful Seaside resort in the South of London and checked into a
boutique hotel facing the Palace Pier. It was isolated at the moment and
Vaami fell in love with its charm and cozy setting.

Shivaay walked in as Vaami stood staring outside the window and back
hugged her, kissing her nape as Vaami held his hands smiling. They stood
staring out holding each other as Shivaay said “Do you know Brighton is
the party capital of London?”
“Is it?” she asked tilting her head sideways and looking at his face and he
nodded answering “Huh, while studying in Oxford we would come here
often to party”

“Oh, party in sense?” she asked creasing her brows as Shivaay smirked
answering “In every sense”

“Hah” she exclaimed and continued “Every sense?”

“Huh” he grinned confirming and she elaborated “Boozing?”

“Yes”

“Fagging?”

“At times”

“And” she thinned her lips as she asked “girl friends?”

“Of course, people come here for that” he grinned answering and Vaami
turned around with an “O” expression as she said “Too much you are”

“Arre, what too much. Every student does that. Don’t tell me you never had
a boy-friend in New York?”

“No I did not. I was a sareef bacchi”

“Yeah yeah, I know” he answered and Vaami frowned as she stomped away
while Shivaay grinned holding her back.

“Forget about all that, now tell me what do you want to do?”

“Everything you did and I missed out” she answered flatly making Shivaay
laugh as he said “That’s not possible madam. Firstly, you can’t drink I
assume as you are expecting and fagging is out of question. And girlfriend
toh”

He did not complete his sentence and Vaami looked at him curling her lips
as she asked “Then what will we do here?”

“We nahi sweetheart, you. I can do everything, not you” he teased as Vaami
rounded her eyes yelling “Shivaaaay” and he chuckled.

They hired a car and drove towards the countryside which was a carpet of
greenery with cow bells ringing and herds of sheep grazing making a
soothing scenery. Villages of thatched cottages and stone roofed houses
beautifully maintained lie nestled at the bottom of small valleys as Shivaay
drove in the tiny lanes and Vaami gasped at the breathtaking view.

“This is so beautiful”

“Huh, it is.” Shivaay replied as they stopped for the famous Gelopu, which
served the best ice creams in England. Vaami cherished every bite as
Shivaay looked at her making her conscious. She licked the cream off her
lips as she asked ‘What?”

“You look like a kid, licking the cream”

“Huh, I am loving it. Though I was never an ice cream person” and
continued “Maybe our baby loves it”

SHivaay looked at her warmly as his gaze dropped on her flat tummy and
the thought of the tiny being inside her giving him goosebumps. He was
scared at the same time his happiness knew no bounds and he held Vaami’s
hand as they walked out of the parlor.

Nights were sensual as they enjoyed long warm baths with Vaami sipping
her juice and Shivaay enjoying his flute of champagne and making up for
all the time lost.
They spoke for hours on end catching up about their dreams and
exchanging childhood memories when Vaami asked as they lay cuddled on
the bed “What do you want? Boy or a girl?”

“Anything is okay”

“Come on, that’s a niche answer, tell me honestly” she nudged him and he
looked at her saying “A daughter”

He looked deep into her as he continued “A daughter who would bring the
best out of me, a little girl in whom I would believe always, someone who
would teach me what unconditional love is all about”

Vaami stared at him emotionally as he smiled asking “How about you?”

“If you’re so much for a daughter, I might as well be for a son, otherwise he
would feel left out, you know” she joked and continued “I would love to
have a son, not because of any other reason but I want him to be like you
Shivaay, someone who loves and respects his women and I feel our society
really lacks such men”

Shivaay hugged her as he kissed her head and both lay absorbing each
other’s silence as it spoke volumes.

The break was a bonding time with one another and they visited Oxford and
Bath enjoying the peaceful time together when finally, it was time for them
to fly back to Jaipur.

Chapter: 37

Vaami had a bad jet lag and she felt awful owing her tiredness and
grouchiness to her pregnancy. She stretched herself on her bed as all she
had done after coming back was rest, rest and rest. Shivaay had ordered her
to not move out of the bed as he himself was scared seeing her worn out
face. She was about to get up when her phone vibrated and she looked at it
and answered.
“Hello ma” She greeted politely

“Hello Vaami, how are you?” Rashmi asked

‘Okay ma, just a bit tired” Vaami answered as she deeply exhaled dropping
her legs down from her bed.

“Huh, it’s understandable in this condition. Why don’t you come and stay
with us for a few days here, you’re all alone there and even we would like
it”

“No” was the immediate reply as she bit her lips closing her eyes as she
continued “I mean no ma, I am okay here”

Rashmi was hurt as she knew what was bothering her and she didn’t blame
her but, she still tried asking “Vaami, please don’t misjudge us, I was just
asking you so that you would get a change and rest”
“I know ma and I am sorry I reacted in that manner. But, seriously I am
okay for now though I would be there along with Shivaay for holi”

Rashmi nodded as she asked her a few general questions and hung up.

Sunita looked at Rashmi who looked away trying to hide her moist eyes as
she asked “Ma, what happened?”

“Nothing” she said when Sunita touched her hand gently asking “What
happened ma? Is Vaami okay?”

Rashmi looked at her as she nodded answering “Yes she is. She is scared to
come here Sunita, I could sense that though she did not say it”

Sunita bit her lips as she knew what Vaami feared and asked “Are her fears
justified ma? Will you oppose if it’s a girl?”

Rashmi looked at her with a shock as she said “What do you think Sunita?
Am I that kind of a mother? I am dying to hold my little baby, my little
grandchild in my hands, doesn’t matter if it’s a girl or a boy. But I know my
husband and this time I am not the weak mother who could not protest for
her baby girl, this time I am a strong grandmother who would leave no
stones unturned to be for my grandchild”

Sunita was happily shocked as she heard her mother in law and nodded
answering “I am happy to know that ma” and Rashmi smiled vowing to win
her son and daughter-in-law’s confidence back.

Time passed with Vaami progressing with her pregnancy and she shuffled
her days between her home and her mama’s. She was on call with the
coordinators of Nanhi Kalli when Shivaay walked in.

“Hey” she greeted him with a smile when Shivaay bend and kissed her head
asking “How are you feeling?”

“Okay, swollen legs” she pouted showing him her feet and he clicked his
tongue asking “Did you call Shuru aunty? Is it normal?”

“yes, to both. She said it’s normal” she answered as a thought crossed her
head and she turned looking at herself in the mirror and creased her brows
asking “Shivaay, I am just six months pregnant and already look like a baby
elephant, what if I don’t lose this fat?”

Shivaay grinned knowing her apprehensions and sat opposite her answering
“We gain a baby Vaami, as for losing this fat is concerned I am sure you
will and even if you don’t I love this cute baby elephant” and laughed as
Vaami looked at him lovingly and hugged him.

They shared a blissful time together as Vaami’s wish was Shivaay’s

command these days. Her tantrums, mood swings and food cravings were
handled with all the love, making Shivaay the perfect husband in Rachna
and Ruchi’s eyes. They often teased them as Shivaay grinned and Vaami
smiled with pride.

It was time for them to travel to Jodhpur when Shivaay looked at Vaami as
she sat tensed asking “Are you okay?”
“Yes” she looked at him and nodded.

“What’s bothering you?” he asked looking at her

“Nothing, it’s just that we are going home after almost six months and” she
looked at him unable to frame the right word

“And what?”

“And I am scared” she finally blurted and Shivaay exhaled as he held her
hand assuring “I am with you Vaami, there is nothing to fear”
She nodded and closed her eyes trying to relax as they finally reached
home.

Sunita and Rashmi awaited their arrivals and were alerted by the car honk
as they stepped out to welcome Vaami. Rashmi hugged Shivaay and smiled
at Vaami as Sunita held Vaami’s hands and teased “Wow, you look so cute”

“What cute?” she pouted as Rashmi and Shivaay chuckled.

Shivaay excused himself as he left for the party office to meet his papa
when Sunita led Vaami inside and Rashmi followed.

“How are your studies going Bhabhi?” Vaami asked Sunita whom she
noticed was looking happy and contented smiled back answering “Good
Vaami, I have my exams next week”

“That’s good” Vaami smiled as Sunita who was beaming said “My
relationship with Soham has also changed, we are more of friends now and
less of strangers” and Vaami grinned teasing “And very soon you will be
more than friends” making Sunita blush.

Vaami was truly happy for her as Vijay Singh walked in glaring at Vaami.
She looked away biting her lips as Shivaay and Soham followed sensing the
tension.
Soham smiled at Vaami and Vaami reciprocated when Shivaay asked
“Where is ma?”

“Ma has gone to meet someone” Sunita answered and Shivaay nodded. The
helpers entered the living room with trays of tea cups when Sunita stepped
forward and took over serving the men as Vijay Singh commented “Teach
something to this memsaab also”
gesturing towards Vaami who furiously stood up looking at him.

Shivaay who too was shocked asked “What’s wrong with you papa? What
difference does it make whether Sunita serves or Vaami, it’s just tea they
don’t require two people to serve”

Vijay Singh looked at his son and clicked his tongue saying “Ghoru ka
Ghulam ban gaya hai tu. I never expected this from you Shivaay”

“If taking her side rightfully is ghoru ka Ghulam then I am glad to be one”
saying he left the room. Vaami looked around as she too followed him and
entered the room.

“Pack your bag Vaami, we are leaving” Shivaay exclaimed as he paced the
room and Vaami looked at him feeling bad. She went forward and touched
his arm saying “Let it go SHivaay, ma won’t like it if we leave before the
Holi puja”

He tilted his head looking at her and exhaled saying “No Vaami, I anyways
have to fly to Delhi tonight and I cannot leave you alone here, so better let’s
leave”

She nodded and did as she was told and they made their way down.

Chapter: 38

Rashmi looked as Shivaay and Vaami descended the staircase and got up
looking at Vijay Singh who sat expressionless. She walked towards him
saying “This is what you wanted, right?”

He looked at her as for the first time his wife questioned him and that too in
front of the entire family. He raised his brows as she asked “Happy, they are
leaving” and Vijay Singh furiously got up looking at Shivaay as he groaned
“Don’t forget who you are Shivaay, you are where you are because of me”

Shivaay gave out a sarcastic smile as he took a step forward and faced his
papa saying “How can I forget who I am papa? And I completely agree I
am who I am because of you. You expect all of us to be a puppet in your
hand but, I am not ready to be one”

“How dare you answer back to me this way Shivaay, this girl has washed
your mind” Vijay Singh groaned looking at Vaami when Shivaay stepped
forward and yelled “This girl has turned on the humanity in me which you
had forgotten to instill. And mind you, never ever insult my wife or else you
would be facing the chief minister and not your son”

Shivaay held Vaami’s held and walked out as Sunita, Soham and Rashmi
looked on. Vijay Singh was aghast as he sat back and Rashmi looked at him
saying “My entire life I have obeyed your orders, whether right or wrong,
never bothering to put myself forward but today, I will speak”

Vijay Singh who was shocked at his wife speaking stared as she continued
“Right from the day I married and entered this house I was a puppet here,
first for your parents and later for you. A punching bag to take all your
blames, frustrations and disappointments. I did that without any complaints
but the biggest blow was when I was forced to kill my unborn child and I
did that. Till date I live with that guilt thinking and counting every day, how
old would my girl be if she was alive, how would have she looked. But, I
killed it all, my dreams, my aspirations my life, just for you and today,
when I see my Shivaay stepping ahead for his wife I feel proud. I feel
contended” she said with tears running down her eyes as Soham stepped
ahead and Rashmi held his hand as she continued “I pray to God Vaami
delivers a baby girl and she turns into everything I wished my daughter
would have been”
Vijay Singh looked at her as she told Soham “I am glad you too are
following your brother’s footsteps and not your fathers”

Sunita who was quietly watching her mother in law openly vent stepped
forward and held her as she tried walking towards her room when she
stopped and passed on a weird look trying to balance herself and Soham
who watched his ma losing balance was quick to come forward and held her
yelling “Ma”

Soham carried her as Sunita called the doctor and Vijay Singh was numb
throughout as Rashmi lay unconscious. It was an hour later that Vijay
Singh, Soham and Sunita stood outside the ICU as the doctor informed “It
was a heart attack. We will get the further investigation done in the
meantime, please pray”

Vijay Singh who gulped his fear stepped ahead asking “Will she be okay
doctor”
“I hope so” was all that the doctor answered walking away.

Soham informed Shivaay who had just reached the airport rushed back to
the hospital along with Vaami.

“How’s ma?” He asked Soham who informed him about the heart attack.

Vaami sat next to Sunita as the atmosphere was tensed and the hospital was
filled with guards and security owing to the fact that the CM’s mother was
admitted and he too was on the premise.

Shivaay requested a few other specialists to loop in and urged Sunita to take
Vaami home along with her. He did not want her stressed.
It was late at night when the doctor confirmed she was out of danger and
SHivaay entered the ICU to meet his ma.
He was taken back seeing his ma lying with machines around and gulped
his tears as he sat across her holding her hands.
“Ma” he called and she opened her eyes turning her head towards him and
smiled saying “Shivaay”
“How are you?”
“Good, Shivaay”
“I am sorry Ma, I just” he tried giving her an explanation when Rashmi
nodded saying “I know Shivaay and I am proud of how you stood up for
Vaami”
SHivaay looked at her as he squeezed her hand saying “Get well soon and
come back home, ma”
“Huh” she hummed as she closed her eyes and drifted off to sleep.

Shivaay walked out informing Soham and Vijay Singh about her health
when Vijay Singh called “Shivaay”
“Ji, papa”
“Will she be okay?” he asked vulnerably and Shivaay along with Soham
were shocked hearing his soft concerned voice. Never ever had they heard
their papa talk in this manner and it took them with complete shock as
Shivaay sat next to Vijay Singh comforting and pacifying him.

However strong you portray yourself to be but nothing prepares you to lose
your life partner, the one who has always stood by you in these years, the
fear of loneliness is worse than anything else.

Back home, Vaami informed her parents about Rashmi and Sunita ordered
the cooks to prepare something healthy for Vaami. She sat next to her
saying “Don’t stress too much Vaami, it’s not good for you”

Vaami looked at her as she bit her lips saying “I feel guilty Bhabhi, just
because of me Shivaay spoke out and see what happened”

“Please Vaami, infact ma was so proud of Shivaay” Sunita informed when

the helpers served the dinner and Vaami and Sunita ate in silence.

Next day, Ajay and Rachna reached the hospital to meet Rashmi when
SHivaay requested them to take Vaami along with them. He was concerned
about her health and Rachna nodded saying “Please don’t worry about her,
we are there. You take care of your ma here”

Vaami left for Jaipur along with her parents and Shivaay resumed work
from Jodhpur and spending as much time as possible with his ailing ma.
Chapter: 39

It was two weeks since Rashmi’s attack and she was recovering and was
about to be discharged when Shivaay walked into her room in the hospital
and smiled looking at his ma, who was engrossed watching TV.

“What’s so interesting ma?” he asked as he looked at the screen and

grinned.

“I feel so proud of you Shivaay for all the initiative you have taken for the
girl rights” she said as she pointed towards the TV where the anchor was
talking about the policies that had changed and new laws that had been
implemented in the state of Rajasthan.
“You know Shivaay, the nurse who is taking care of me is so in awe of you.
Because of the law against forceful abortion, today she has her daughter in
her hands. Her husband was against girl child and was forcing her to abort”

Shivaay was listening attentively realizing for the first time that there are so
many people suffering in your first environment, someone whom we meet
and watch every day, without even realizing what all they are going
through. He nodded humbly replying “ma, there is so much more to do”

“Yes, there is Shivaay but am sure with you around things will work out
favorably”

Shivaay smiled at his ma when his phone vibrated and he smiled answering
“Hello”

“Shivaay, I miss you” Vaami who was lazing pouted as she complained

“Huh” he said as Rashmi looked at him and he couldn’t reply back to Vaami

“What huh? Say you miss us too”

“Yes” he spoke uncomfortably

“Yes, is that all you going to say, Kal raat toh badi badi baatein kar rahe the,
I love you, I miss you etc etc, and look now”

“Vaami, I will call you later” Shivaay finally said as he knew she was in a
cribbers mood right now and she wouldn’t give up easily.

“Yeah yeah, now you don’t love me, you don’t care for me, why will you
sweet talk me, hain nah?”

Shivaay exhaled as he ran his hands in his hair and said “Vaami, are you
okay?” and Rashmi creased her brows hoping all was okay

“Am I okay, hello mister Are you okay?” she shouted as Shivaay shook his
head and Rashmi smirked gesturing him to move out and talk to Vaami. He
gently nodded excusing himself as he said “I love You, I miss You. Bus?”

“Bus?” Vaami sulked as she asked

“What ya Vaami, what kind of mood swing is this? Sometimes you are all
matured and talking sense and sometimes” he exhaled as he paced the
corridor and said “I am in the hospital and was with ma when you were
forcing me to say all cheesy things”

Vaami who was listening to him thinned her lips asking “Cheesy things?
Huh, now telling your pregnant wife you love her and miss her is all cheesy
and crap right?”

“Vaami please” he exclaimed as he knew this was just one of those days
when she refused to be sensible and calmed himself before saying “Okay I
am sorry, I hurt you. I seriously miss you and will be back in Jaipur
tomorrow”

Vaami all of a sudden sparked up asking “Really?”

“Yes, really” Shivaay said amusingly hearing her as it truly amazed him
how quickly her mood changed and thanked God for some small mercies.
They spoke about a few things and hund up as SHivaay walked back into
the room to join his ma, who smiled looking at him and asked “She is
missing you?”
Shivaay smiled and she continued “You should go back to Jaipur Shivaay,
she needs you now”

“I know ma, tomorrow after your discharge with fly back to Jaipur”
Shivaay informed and Rashmi nodded.

Vaami who smiled and walked inside the kitchen looked at her mama as she
asked “Arre wah, someone is truly happy today”

“Yes mama, Shivaay is coming back tomorrow” Vaami informed happily

and Rachna smiled cupping her face and kissed her forehead as she said
“Yes, but don’t trouble that man so much”

“trouble?” Vaami asked amusingly

“Yes, with your midnight cravings and mood swings I know how much you
trouble that poor fellow, he has a state to run besides giving in to your
demands”

Vaami smiled as she looked at her mama thinking how a person’s

perspective changes 360 degrees within a year. She knew how against her
mama was for this wedding and now she all for Shivaay.

Chapter: 40

Shivaay flew back to Jaipur and picked up Vaami on the way. She was
super excited to be back home with Shivaay when she smiled realizing how
she missed her abode. She met her staff and they were happy to have her
back, all ready to pamper her as per the instrustions given by Rachna and
Rashmi.

Days flew by with Shivaay pampering Vaami as she entered her 9th month
when one evening Vaami who was feeling restless called her mama.
“Vaami, how are you beta?”
“No good mama, can you please come home?” she requested and Rachna
was alert as she nodded saying “Right away beta, you relax”
Rachna reached and rushed in to see Vaami who was restlessly pacing the
living room with her hand on her waist. She looked distressed when Rachna
suggested them to visit her doctor and the duo left for the hospital.
On the way, Rachna informed Shivaay and Ajay who too rushed to the
hospital to be with Vaami when Shiru Aunty stepped out after examining
Vaami and delared “She is in labor”
“But she is in pain doctor” Shivaay said impatiently when Shiru aunty
smiled and gently touched his arm saying “No mother on this earth has ever
delivered a baby without pain”
Shivaay looked at her dismayed as he asked “May I meet her?”
“Sure” and Shivaay rushed into Vaami’s room and was shocked seeing
Vaami squeezing her palms in pain. She smiled seeing Shivaay and he
stepped forward sitting next to her holding her hands.
“Is it bad?” he asked helplessly and Vaami bit her lips nodding as she said
“It’s going to be worse”
Shivaay sighed as he saw the nurses around Vaami and the doctor re-
entered to examine Vaami. She encouraged Vaami to push and all the labor
Shivaay stood right next to her supporting her when in reality he was the
one who needed someone’s support.
He wasn’t sure how long the actual labor lasted but he was stunned when he
finally heard a loud cry and Shiru aunty gently handed Vaami their bundle
of Joy delaring “Congratulations it’s a Girl!”

Vaami looked at SHivaay who was completely lost as silent tears ran down
his cheeks as he looked at his daughter for the first time. He gulped them as
he stepped forward and gently touched her tiny hands and she immediately
wrapped it around Shivaay’s finger. He was emotional as he looked at their
entwined fingers and made a promise to himself “He would always love
and protect her”
Vaami who was exhausted drifted off to sleep and the nurse took the baby
away leaving Shivaay flabbergasted.
He walked out as Ajay and Rachna congratulated him and Ajay whispered
“The father whose first born is a daughter are the lucky ones” and Shivaay
nodded happily as he excused himself to call his ma.
Rashmi Rajput was on cloud nine as she happily announced the good news
to everyone deliberately ignoring her husband. Soham and Sunita happily
hugged Rashmi as Vijay Singh watched when he finally whispered asking
“How is the baby?”
Soham was the only one who heard his papa and grinned as he called
SHivaay and requested him to send the baby’s pic. Shivaay did so right
away as Soham sat next to Vijay Singh showing him his mobile as the pic
downloaded and Vijay Singh’s eyes sparked as he saw the first image of his
grand daughter. Silent tears cascaded down his cheeks making Rashmi and
Sunita zap. They stood silently watching him as he sobbed and looked at
Rashmi saying “We should be there” and Rashmi nodded as SOham made
arrangements for them to travel.

Shivaay who had just stepped out of the hospital looked at the media and
smiled folding his hands as he passed the statement saying “Thank you for
your wishes and Blessings. It’s a baby girl and we are over the moon”
Pics flashed as he smiled wide and finally excused himself as he entered
Vaami’s room who had just woken up and sat next to her saying “Thank
you and congratulations mama”
“Congratulations to you too” she murmered back as the nurse walked in
carrying their bundle of joy and Vaami sat up holding their baby.

Shivaay traced her tiny fingers as Vaami asked “What do you want to name
her?”
“Shivanshi” he said proudly and Vaami smiled confirming it. The day
passed with the doting father being at his daughter’s service as Ajay and
Rachna smiled seeing them when Vijay Singh along with the rest of Rajputs
entered.
Vaami was alert as she watched her father in law and Shivaay who was
holding the tiny bundle looked at his papa as Vijay Singh stepped ahead
saying “I have come to take my treasure home, my first grand child, my
grand daughter who has brought a ray of hope and sunshine in our lives”
Rashmi smiled as she took the baby from SHivaay’s hands declared
authoratively saying “Our lil angel is a gift from above who has brought
sense to her grandfather” and looked at Vijay Singh who looked down in
shame as Soham came forward saying “It’s never too late papa, first Vaami
taught us and now this little one”
Sunita too came and hugged Vaami as Vijay Singh looked at them saying
“Forgive me, I was wrong in treating you both indiferrently when in reality
youll have made my house into a home with your love and warmth” he
folded his hands as both Sunita and Vaami said “Please papa” and Shivaay
smiled looking at his papa whispering “Today for the first time I realized
how strong a woman is, the pain that she bears and yet smiles is
unmeasurable. My respect for them has grown ten folds and I bow down to
all the mothers”
SOham and Vijay Singh looked at him as Rashmi side hugged him as
Vaami was all smiles seeing her happy family.

It was later at night when Shivaay sat across Vaami as she relaxed after
feeding her baby that Shivaay kissed her forehead saying “Our Shivanshi
has brought harmony with her”
Vaami looked at him creasing her brows as he said “I never expected papa
to bow down but I am happy I was proved wrong”
“Huh” Vaami hummed as she smiled and answered “You know Shivaay,
happiness is when our dreams and our wishes are in harmony and Shivanshi
is our dream and wish”

“She sure is” Shivaay smiled as he leaned forward to kiss her when they
heard a loud cry and Shivaay smirked commenting “women domination
starts, right here right now” and Vaami laughed.

“Hold her a little longer,

rock her a little more,
read her another story,
you’ve only read her four.
Let her sleep on your shoulder,
Rejoice in her happy smile.
She is only a little girl for such a little while”
-Dedicated to all the tiny little sparkles!
BONUS

1 year later:

It was Shivanshi’s first birthday and on special insistence of the doting

grandfather the Rajputs planned a grand celebration. Vaami looked around
as each and every family member was engrossed in some work or the other
as she smiled watching her toddler commenting “You’re lucky my little
one, look at the change in this house” just then Shivanshi who was busy
playing her blocks looked up giving her famous toothless grin as her chachu
called “What is my princess doing?” Soham for whom nothing mattered
once upon a time was a completely changed man, he was his neice’s
favourite go to person, the one who for whom her wish was his command.
Shivanshi babbled “Chachu” and Soham picked her up tossing her in the air
playfully as Sunita joined Vaami.
“When is Shivaay coming?” she asked Vaami
“Dunno Bhabhi, he was supposed to be here in the morning itself but”
Soham watched them converse as he interrupted saying “He will be here
soon” and Vaami hummed as she excused herself.
Sunita looked at the bond Soham shared with Shivanshi and smiled as he
turned towards her commenting “Chachi is glowing these days”
Sunita was stunned hearing such a comment from SOham’s mouth as he
smirked making Sunita blush. “Someone feels loved these days, so the
glow” she whispered making SOham soften his looks and smile as he
hugged her with his other hand kissing both his favorite girls at the same
time as Shivanshi kissed him back making SUnita chuckle as he smirked
saying “I expected the same treatment from you both” making Sunita laugh
as she kissed Shivanshi’s cheek playfully.

It was lunch time as the Rajputs occupied the grand dining table and
Shivanshi sat on her high chair which by default placed between her
grandparents. Vijay Singh fed her the first morsel as he kissed her head and
Rashmi Singh looked at her husband lovingly as she said “It’s truly said
grandparents and grand children share the same heartbeat”
“Yes, ma and also the same enemy” Vaami added making everyone laugh as
often Vijay Singh and Rashmi left no stones unturned to spoil Shivanshi
while Vaami objected causing a mild rift between them.

Post lunch everyone retired to their room and Rashmi insisted on Shivanshi
napping with her to which Vaami agreed as she paced her room waiting for
her husband. She picked her mobile to dial when SHivaay immediately
answered “Yes Vaami”
“What Yes Shivaay, where are you?”
“Right outside” and the door opened as he entered grinning as he very well
knew he would have to calm his matahari.

Shivaay grinned as Vaami snapped “You’re always late Shivaay! Always”

“Huh, I am sorry I was caught up”
“Everyone is doing something or the other and look at you, you enter like a
guest, seriously Shivaay”
“I am loving her mamma for her, isn’t that the best thing” he commented
making Vaami soften up. She looked at SHivaay with love and said
“Nobody can win you in talks, hain nah?” making Shivaay laugh.

The evening was grand as all the VIPs gathered around and the Rajputs
along with the Bansals gathered around to cut the cake. It was a jolly time
for everyone as Shivanshi refused to leave Shivaay who happily carried her
around.

5 years later:

Shivaay and Vaami were cordially invited to the Rastrapati Bhavan as the
President greeted the young couple and proudly appreciated the hardwork
they had put in to save and educate the girl child.
“It’s an honour to meet you both” said the President as Shivaay smiled
thanking him and Vaami added “If every state of India has a Chief Minister
like him, its not far that we will have the highest literacy rate for girls and
women will reach heights in every field”
“That’s right” the President commented patting Shivaay’s shoulders.
They retired to their presidential suite in Taj where Vaami changed and sat
opposite to Shivaay who was busy tying on his laptop. She stared at him as
he looked up raising his brows asking “what?”

“I miss kids” she answered pouting

“Huh, call them” he suggested and Vaami looked for her mobile dialing
Sunita’s number.

“Yes Vaami” Sunita said

“Hi Bhabhi, how are you?”
“I am okay and so are the kids. I know you’re restless without them Vaami
but trust me Shivaanshi is a perfect elder sis to these two brats”
Vaami smiled hearing that as she remembered how excited Shivaanshi was
when Vaami had entered home after delivering her twin boys. She had gone
all gaga over them and acted a doted sister.
“I hope they are not troubling you” Vaami asked
“No not at all, infact Shivanshi is right here and wants to talk to you”
saying Sunita handed the phone to the little girl standing next to her.
“Hello mamma”
“Hello baby, how are you my darling?”
“Good mamma, we went horse riding in the evening with SOham chachu
and ate an icecream but dadi refused to give any to Shrey and Sanay”
“Yes baby, they are too little to eat ice cream”
“Yes mamma, where’s daddy?”
“Right here baby” saying Vaami put the phone on speaker and gestured
SHivaay to speak.
“Hello my princess” Shivaay said
“Hello daddy, did you meet Mr. President?”
“Yes, I did” he answered smilingly and was amazed at the way she often
spoke to him, all grown up with little aspirations.
“I miss you daddy, come back soon” Shivaanshi said and Vaami narrowed
her eyes as she intervened saying “Aww, you don’t miss mamma but you
miss daddy”
Shivaay smirked seeing Vaami as he said “That’s because daddy and
Shivanshi have a special bond, right baby”
“Right daddy”
“Okay, love you and will see you tomorrow” saying Shivaay hung up and
Vaami pouted saying “how much ever I do she is always siding you”
“comeon Vaami she is a kid and by the way how are our brats?”
Vaami smiled at their mention as she recalled saying “How time flies nah
Shivaay, they are already six months old”
“Huh, and remember how you reacted when you got to know we were
having twins”
“Oh yes, I was shocked to be honest. Firstly, our pregnancy was unplanned
and to top it all we got to know they are twins”
“Yeah and that too boys” SHivaay added making Vaami laugh as Shivaay
was heartbroken knowing there won’t be any more girls.

Vaami got up as she sat next to Shivaay and he pulled her close whispering
“Next time you drink I am staying away from you, can’t afford any more
kids, people will ban me from being their CM”
Vaami laughed aloud remembering how she had actually molested Shivaay.

25 years later:

The second time nominated Prime Minister of India Shivaay Singh Rajput
walked inside the Prime Minister House as the first lady Vaami Shivaay
Rajput looked at her man with love greeting him as she ordered for a cup of
tea.
“How was the cabinet meet?” she asked offering him the cup as he browsed
through some files and answered “good, we need to travel to Vietnam
tomorrow”
“Yeah” she answered as she was used to getting his divided attention most
of the time. He was the youngest and most appreciated Prime Minister who
had won his people’s heart by his honest and hard work. Just then Shivanshi
entered greeting her parents as she sat next to Shivaay saying “Dad, you
were awesome today. The way you spoke to the media, you shut them up
completely”
Shivaay smiled at her as he proudly looked at his daughter who too was
inclined towards politics and was studying Political Science and often
participated in the annual debates and had won the international award for
the best papers presented for the predictable economy of the developing
nation.
They spoke about the present scenario as Vaami observed them as she
commented “Can we talk about something other than politics, please?”
“Mumma, it’s in my DNA, can’t escape” Shivanshi joked and Shivaay
smirked as he watched his twins entering. As usual they sat next to Vaami
as she asked “How was college?”
“Good, Shrey is invited to a party tonight by Ria” Sanay teased as Shrey
who was the milder one blushed as Shivaay smirked looking at him while
Vaami commented “That’s good. I am so proud of you Shrey, you’re a
thorough gentlemen that girls want you with them and you Sanay please try
being a little like your brother, a little considerate”
“Right mumma!” he said as Shivaanshi reminded them about Anya’s 10th
birthday. Anya was Soham and Sunita’s daughter who was adopted when
she was a month old. Sunita struggled conceiving and it was Vaami who
had convinced her to adopt a little girl and SOham was more than happy.
That night as Shivaay retired to his room he back hugged Vaami saying
“Thank you”
Vaami turned around raising her brows as SHivaay explained “Life’s come
a full circle with you. Your love, your courage, your persistence, your
resilence all has brought a perfect harmony in my life”
“What’s got into you, SHivaay?”
“You’ve have got into me, my first lady” he said kissing her forehead and
Vaami hugged him back feeling contented. Life indeed had come a full
circle.