Family Disorder (completed)

Weeks later, Kripa sat on her couch gazing at the newspaper article, her friend Ridimaa had showed her. Ridimaa was a doctor who worked in a near by hospital. She was engaged to her fellow colleague Armaan. Kripa had met her a few weeks ago, after helping an injured boy get to the hospital. She was a very helpful and caring person who had caught her attention instantly. Between her visits to the little boy, she would often meet Ridimaa. Their meetings had blossomed into friendship in very little time.

Ridimaa would often visit her on the weekends. She had brought her fianc along with her once or twice. At first Kripa was hesitant to welcome them so openly but their friendly nature had her melted in a puddle in no time.

In the little time Ridimaa had known Kripa, she could tell she was very lonely despite the many people around. She was a very helpful person, a little too helpful sometimes. She would often busy herself so much, she would forget herself. For these reasons Ridimaa felt very protective towards her. It was almost like she was her little sister.

"So, you want to go for it?" Ridimaa asked, tapping the newspaper

"Shall I?" she asked unsure

"It's your choice Kripa; I know you love children, so I thought maybe you'd like this"

Her lips lifted slightly "I think I should go for it" she looked at Ridimaa, her face glowing "Thank you so much Ridimaa" she exclaimed hugging her

"Kripa" she laughed pulling apart "I did nothing okay"

Kripa giggled "you're helping me find a job"

"And helping you find is nothing okay!" she exclaimed walking towards the kitchen "what's cooked?"

"Rice; want some?" Kripa asked following

"Mhmmm, I'm starving" she said looking through the dishes whilst Kripa smiled watching her

A week later Kripa sat in the corridor of Khanna Enterprise. She had called them the day Ridhimaa showed her the advert, thus being called for a job interview a week later. She looked around at the well dressed staff. They all seemed to hold class and style but they seemed rather lacking in hospitality.

Her chain of thoughts was broken with the call of the receptionist "Miss Sharma" she repeated

 

"Umm yes?" she asked lifting her head

 

"You can go in" she said "last door to the right" she pointed

 

Kripa nodded. Standing, she tugged at her skirt, then walked down the corridor. She came face to face with a large wooden door with the name 'Aditya Khanna' inscribed in golden letters.

 

Taking a deep breath she knocked on the door "May I come in?"

 

"Come in" she heard. Stepping Inside she took note of the fine interior with the classy black and white furniture used giving a classic but modern look "Have a seat Miss Sharma" he ordered in his deep baritone. She sat on the plush leather chair facing a tall handsome man with light stubble on his cheeks, small brown eyes accompanied by thin squared glasses. His thick brown hair was brushed back neatly complimenting his grey suit "I'm Aditya Khanna" he introduced putting his hand forward.

 

"Kripa Sharma" she answered taking his hand "Nice to meet you"

 

"My pleasure" he answered looking at the petite lady "Alright Miss Sharma, let's get started" he rubbed his hands together then picked up a file, skimming through the pages "How much do you know about this job?" he asked

 

"You need a baby sitter to supervise your children when you are out" she answered unsure

 

"Correct. I need a baby sitter. I have to go out quite a lot so there is no one I can leave my kids with" he sighed "You're not the first person who has come for this interview. There have been many people.  Why do you think you are more capable of this job than them?"

 

"I may be a better option because I have experience in this department. I use to help look after children at the local orphanage in my village so I know how to cope with children"

 

"Before I can offer you this job there will be terms and conditions you will have to agree to. Are you ready for that?"

 

She nodded "If they suitable then I agree"

 

"Well, to start with I may have to leave the kids in situations of emergency; therefore I will need you to be there immediately. Be day or night" She nodded "Although I may employee you to look after my children, I will not allow you to take them outside the house. I don't want to be taking any sort of risk" she nodded again giving her consent "and lastly you will not interfere in any family problems. I shall warn you from before you may see things that you may not like but I will not tolerate under any circumstances, you becoming involved in my family problems. Do you agree Miss Sharma?"

 

"I agree" she said quietly

 

"If you cannot make it on time more than three times then you will be fired" he informed "I am very strict about punctuality and attendance therefore I will not tolerate it too much unless it is in a case of emergency" he paused "Tell me Miss Sharma, How likely are you to be caught in such a situation. Let's say out of ten" he shrugged

 

"I'm not so likely to be held in such a situation. I have no living family. I have an Uncle who lives in Rajasthan and a few friends who live in Mumbai. That's about it. So I should be here nine out of ten times if there is ever an emergency"

 

He nodded seeming pleased "Well, I'll be happy to hire you Miss Sharma" she smiled delighted "But before I offer you this job; I will need some sort of identification. It's part of my company's policy. Although you will not be working in this company, I would very much like to follow the policy. And it is also for the safety checks. I have a whole company to run and I can't risk taking up someone with a criminal history or anything similar. I hope you understand Miss Sharma."

 

She nodded "Most of my documents are still in Rajasthan so I won't be able to get anything before a week" she informed

 

"That's absolutely fine Miss Sharma as long as I get those documents. I'll arrange you an appointment with my company's lawyer. He'll see you a week from today at ten o clock. He'll see you documents and you'll sign the contract papers with you. The contract will last for a period of twelve months. It will be extended if I feel you are capable are more time"

 

"Yes Sir"

 

"Congratulations Miss Sharma" he said stranding taking her hand "you are appointed if you sign the contract next week" he pulled his hands back picking up a small card "Take my card. If there are any problems you can call the office and I'll see what I can do to help you"

 

She smiled taking the card "Thank you Mr Khanna. It was a pleasure meeting you. Have a good day" she greeted before leaving the office all smiles.

"So?" Ridhimaa asked settling down with a coffee "How was your interview?"

 

Kripa smiled distressed "it was good. I got the job. Just a few formalities left" she answered then groaned "he asked me to bring proof of identity for safety reasons and I agreed. I phoned uncle and it turns out my passport expired two years ago. It never got remade so I'll have to send an application off for a new passport which in the least will take a month. I need it in a week's time. I've got a medical card but they want at least two documents which prove my identity" she sighed looking at Ridhimaa "What am I going to do?"

 

Ridhimaa smiled "Well I can write you a reference if they accept that. You should call and find out. You'd get in quite easy if you have a Doctors reference"

 

Kripa smiled widely "Oh thank you Ridhimaa" she exclaimed hugging her "Thank you so much"

 

"Hey" Ridhimaa said pulling her apart "why the tears?" she asked

 

Kripa shook her head "Just feel like it. I guess the leap I took from Rajasthan to Mumbai is getting to me. People are so different here. Almost heartless if you ask me; In so many parts of Mumbai there are poor people hoping for a better future and those who have so much are just so careless and horrible. They don't see the value of small things"

 

"Oh Kripa; what happened? What brought this on?"

 

Kripa laughed wiping her tears "not much, I guess I've just been thinking to deep. I'm trying to understand the people over here"

 

"Well stop thinking so much. You meet good and bad people Kripa. Your thoughts or opinion isn't going to make a difference to them so just ignore these feelings and for god sake forget that Car guy. You're never going to see him again and he won't see you. He probably doesn't even remember you. So don't waste your time on people like that"

 

"How did you know I was thinking about that?"

 

"Oh don't you know" Ridhimaa teased I read minds"

 

"Yeah Right" Kripa snapped throwing a cushion her way

 

Kripa rushed into the huge concrete building out of breath. She was late to her appointment by ten minutes. Not that it was her fault. Could she be blamed for the horrible traffic of Mumbai? She straightened her clothes then walked towards the reception area.

 

 She had called Aditya Khanna a few days ago regarding the reference letter Ridhimaa had wrote for her.  He had allowed it for the time being but had told her he would need to see those documents as soon as possible. That was okay for her, as long as she got the job.

 

She watched the receptionist talk on the phone, then turn to her after saying goodbye "How can I help you?" she asked

 

"I have an appointment at ten o clock with Mr Aditya Khanna's lawyer. I'm really sorry I'm late. I was stuck in traffic"

 

The lady smiled "What's your name?"

 

"Kripa Sharma"

 

She typed her name in and scanned the database; confirming the appointment, then picked up the phone dialing a few numbers "Mr Khanna; Miss Kripa Sharma is here. She had an appointment with you at ten o clock" she paused "Alright sir, I'll send her up" she put the phone down "you can go up. Third floor, Last door on the right"

 

Kripa nodded "Thank you" she walked to the elevators, patiently waiting for the third floor. She walked down the corridor coming face to face with a similar door to Aditya Khanna's. Instead it had Angad Khanna inscribed in golden cursive letters. She knocked on the door "Can I come in?"

 

"Come in" a deep husky voice replied. A rather familiar deep voice she thought as she entered. She was surprised to find the same fiery eyes staring at rather impatiently. It was that rude man who had almost knocked her over with his car two months ago. It was really disturbing that she still remembered him. He was a stranger to her. She wasn't supposed to remember but strangely she did. She came out of train of thoughts with a click of his fingers "Miss Sharma I don't have all day" he said rather irritated

 

"Sorry" she mumbled

 

"What sorry?" he barked "I value my time very much. I don't appreciate late comers" He sat in his expensive leather chair picking up a file "I'm Angad Khanna, I handle the legal matters of this company but you will be working with him at home so he insists you have a sign a contract. Mr Khanna should have explained the terms and conditions to you. Read through the terms and conditions and then sign your consent on the file. You will be paid Rs 1000 for every hour you work" he paused giving her the file "sit down Miss Sharma" she nodded sitting down "I've been told you would be bringing  a reference letter and a document for your proof of identity " She nodded again pulling out some papers from her purse. He looked through the papers, then photocopied them "Miss Sharma we don't normally accept reference letters since it's something we need anyways. But since you say your passport has expired I shall give you a month. I need to see your passport. So I'll be seeing you a month from today" he paused to check his diary "at four o clock. I expect you to be on time next time Miss Sharma"

 

She sighed nodding. She skimmed through the document then signed her consent "When do I start working?" she asked uncomfortably. The man was very disturbing. He held this arrogance which angered her to no end but he seemed almost too mysterious. She sighed shaking her head. She better pay attention otherwise he'd snap at her again.

 

"Well, at least you won't be seeing him so much. I mean he works in the office right and you will be working at the house" she comforted

 

"Yeah that's true. I'll be seeing him next month for some legal stuff but I guess that's about it, unless y contract is renewed or something" she sighed playing with the button of her shirt "I'm going there tomorrow. Mr Khanna wants me to baby sit tomorrow"

 

"Well then best of luck" Ridhimaa wished

 

Kripa smiled "Thanks" she paused, a sudden thought coming to her mind "you know what's strange. His second name is also Khanna"

 

"Oh come on Kripa. Stop thinking about him already; anyone can have Khanna for a second name"

 

"I guess so" she smiled to herself "what are you and Armaan doing on Saturday?"

 

"Nothing much; we've got duty till two then we're free. Why?"

 

"Well then Saturday evening you're having dinner at mine"

 

"We'll be there"

 

"You better be" Kripa laughed rolling onto her bed

"You're Early Miss Sharma" Aditya commented glancing at his watch

 

She nodded "I thought I'd come early to avoid being late"

 

"Well in that case I'll introduce you to my children" He looked towards the stairs instinctively "Ayush, Abhi" his loud voice boomed "come downstairs"

 

Two adorable children came running down a series of stairs stumbling before their father. They straightened up looking at him then looking at Kripa curiously. They were cute kids. One slightly taller than the other. The taller boy was thin with a pointy nose, big brown eyes and pink puffy cheeks. He looked cute standing in front of his father, his head lowered, his eyes wondering everywhere.

 

The smaller boy was just as cute with a little chubby fat. He had the same puffy pink cheeks his brother possessed, lovely brown eyes hidden behind round glasses and a thick mop of brown hair. He looked at her with his mouth slightly open, two teeth missing. He was clearly an innocent. Kripa smiled at them politely, already feeling overwhelmed seeing such gorgeous kids. She hoped they were just as gorgeous with their attitudes.

 

"This is Ayush" Aditya said pointing towards the taller child "and this is Abhi"

 

Kripa smiled "There cute kids" Ayush scrunched his nose whilst Abhi smiled displaying cute dimples in both his cheeks.

 

Aditya saw his wife coming down the stairs dressed in a simple pink sari "this is Sanya, my wife" he pointed. He took her by her arm bringing her closer "say hello Sanya"

 

Sanya looked at Aditya then a Kripa "hello" she mumbled

 

Kripa felt a little awkward. She almost felt like Mrs Khanna didn't like her presence in the house, but then again she could be reading too much into it "Hello Mrs Khanna" Kripa greeted, then paused "are there any instruction for me to follow?" she asked

 

Aditya nodded "Make sure they eat by eight and please put them to bed by ten. I shouldn't be too long but just in case, stay till we are back"

 

Kripa nodded dutifully. Aditya bid goodbye, coaxing Sanya yet again. Once they left she turned towards the children and smiled hoping they would be nothing like she had experienced with her family so far.

 

Aditya Khanna almost seemed like a ruthless father when she had met him. Especially the comments he had made for the safety of his business rather than his children. But then again, she could be reading in to it too much. Aditya Khanna may have seemed rather insensitive soul but his children were not like him. Ayush was slightly cheeky but children are meant to be. Abhi was smaller than Ayush and was just as sweet and adorable. He was a quiet boy who appreciated nature over manmade objects made.

Ayush was running around the house looking for something or the other to get rid of his boredom. Whilst Abhi for some strange reason was staring at the carpet, almost as if he'd discovered the biggest secrets "what are you doing?" Kripa asked sitting next to him on the plush leather sofa.

"I—I" he looked away in panic

Kripa held his small hands "I won't laugh. I promise" she pinched her throat in promise. He looked towards her curiously "smile" she coaxed. He smiled once again displaying his deep dimples "What were you doing?"

"I was looking for something" he murmured

"On the carpet" she asked with a raised brow

"I was looking for faces"

Kripa smiled "let's do it together"

He looked at her in amazement "will you really look for them with me?"

"Of course" she smiled "when I was small I use to do that a lot"

"Really?" his smile widened making his dimples tighter "Dad say it's rubbish and time wasting"

"It's not" Kripa kneeled in front of him "it's your imagination and everyone has a different imagination" she cuddled his chubby cheek "come on, let's look for some faces" Abhi smiled and looked down at the cream colored carpet, pointing them out once in a while.

Kripa turned her attention away from the carpet when she heard a shout from upstairs "I'll be back in a minute" she mumbled standing and walked towards the stairs. She didn't really know the way through the house so it took her a few minutes to find where the voice was coming from. She walked through the hallway; then stopped seeing Ayush standing at a distance looking frightened. She rushed to him, kneeling down and asked "what's wrong Ayush? Why are you crying?" she asked wiping the tears streaming from his eyes "and who was that shouting?" He remained silent, clutching onto Kripa's Shirt whilst she cuddled him closer, concerned "you okay?" she mumbled, feeling awkward. It almost felt like there was someone watching her. Instinctively she turned to glance backwards and froze.

 

Angad Khanna stood behind her dressed in casual jeans and a jumper staring at her and Ayush furiously. She gulped nervously and stood straight "Mr Khanna" she murmured "what are you doing here?"

He seemed more angered with her question "I should be asking you Miss Sharma. You've been told to look after Aditya Khanna's Children. Not let them wander about, breaking things" he growled

 

"Oh" she said dumbfounded.

 

"I think you didn't hear what I said clearly Miss Sharma. I don't want them wandering about. Do you understand?"

 

She nodded numbly "it won't happen again" she muttered.

 

"It better not happen next time" he warned "Now get back to work" he said slamming his door shut.

 

Once he was out of sight, she turned back to Ayush in worry "Are you alright Ayush?" she said caressing his face. He nodded hugging her around her neck. She smiled lifting the boy up in her arms "Well, not to worry. I'm here. No one can do anything to you while I'm here" she whispered taking him down the stairs; where Abhi still sat gawking at the carpet critically.

 

Kripa lay in the comfort of her blanket, her thoughts going back to her evening. The children were cute and just as innocent, but there family wasn't. If they lived in that family too long their innocence would drown in the brutality the family seemed to carry.

 

She rolled onto her stomach feeling uneasy. She would have to work in the same house Angad Khanna lived in. Ayush had told her he was his uncle, Aditya Khanna's brother. What bothered her so much was his behavior. She understood to an extent why he would be rude to her. She was a stranger to him. But what had Ayush done. He had merely dropped a vase which was plastic. How could he shout at such a small child? Especially when the kid was his own nephew? Well, that explains why Aditya Khanna wanted a baby sitter for his kids rather than having his own brother look after them she thought feeling her eyelids dropped. Soon enough she was snoring softly, sound asleep.

"I have to say; you're a better cook than Ridhimaa" Armaan complimented

"Thank you, but I think you shouldn't compliment me too much in front of Ridhimaa" Kripa teased. It was a Saturday night; Armaan and Ridhimaa were at Kripa's apartment for dinner as promised.

"So Kripa how was your first day at work?" Ridhimaa asked "I haven't had a chance to ask. It's been so bus at the hospital lately"

"It was good. The kids are adorable" she replied smiling slightly, then sighed "and apparently Angad Khanna lives there as well"

"Really?" Ridhimaa dropped her spoon "how come?"

"He's Aditya Khanna's brother" she muttered "and he has got to be one of the meanest people I know. He doesn't even know how to behave with his own nephews, let alone me. I completely sympathize with Aditya Khanna for having a brother like him" 

"Well then he doesn't know what he's losing out on. You'll come across a lot of people Kripa. Good and bad. You have to learn to ignore it" Ridhimaa advised

"I'm being ignored" Armaan whined interrupting there conversion "And might I add, it's very rude"

Kripa chuckled whilst Ridhimaa slapped his arm "Oh be serious for once Armaan"

"I am serious" he shrugged "I was being ignored"

Ridhimaa narrowed her eyes watching him grin "Yeah right"

"Hey" he defended "stop glaring" he moved his chair closer to Kripa's "if you be mean to me, I'll marry Kripa" he teased taking hold of her hands

Kripa giggled "God can't be unfair to me" she said pulling her hand back "He's already been unfair with Ridhimaa" she teased

Armaan heaved a sigh "fine, I'll just have to find someone else who will appreciate me more than you two" he scoffed in mock anger

"And if you do; I'll kill you before Ridhimaa does" Kripa threatened in jest

Ridhimaa smiled watching her fianc and friend tease each other. There teasing banter set her mood. She had been a little upset for a few days, although she was very good at hiding it. Her father was suffering from lung cancer because of his excessive smoking habits. Her mother had died too long ago. If she lost her father she wouldn't be able to bear it.

 

She hadn't known Kripa for too long but the short time she had known her, she had come to love her like the little sister she never had. Kripa was a sweet girl, who for some reason she could share everything with. She had a lot of friends in the past but no one had come close to what Kripa was. She had felt that instant connection when she had met Kripa.

 

Armaan On the other hand was another story. When she had met him, he was nothing but annoying. He use to cause a lot of trouble when they were interns. He'd play pranks, never pay attention in classes but still managed to top most of the classes and that was what irritated her the most. But the same things that would irritate her then would make her smile now.

 

Armaan and Kripa glanced at Ridhimaa to find her eyes shining with unshed tears. Immediately they stopped there teasing banter, paying attention to her "hey Ridhimaa" Armaan said softly taking her into his arms "What's wrong sweetheart?"

 

She smiled shaking her head "it's nothing, just thinking"

 

"Oh, then you're definitely not thinking about me" Kripa and Ridhimaa looked at him confused "well, she wouldn't be crying if it was me" he shrugged "she'd either be blushing or angry if it was me" he teased

"Armaan" Ridhimaa whined shaking her head "you're impossible"

 

He grinned "you know you wouldn't want me any other way" he winked. Ridhimaa smiled bashfully leaning into his chest "So Kripa! What are planning to do while you're not babysitting?"

 

"I don't know, I'll just go with the flow, see if I find something interesting to do" she shrugged

 

"Why don't you help us out at the hospital" he suggested

 

"I haven't studied anything to do with science Armaan so no. I was a math's student at university and believe me, it was a very boring degree"

 

"Awww my bad" Armaan sighed "I was hoping for the company of the young beautiful lady" he winked

 

Kripa smiled shaking her head "stop flirting Armaan---" she was cut off by the ringing of the phone "I'll be back" Kripa said walking towards the kitchen "Hello" she greeted picking up the phone.

"Hello. I'm Mr Khanna's personal assistant from Khanna enterprise. Sir has told me to inform you, you need to babysit his children immediately. He needs to leave to Bangalore for an urgent conference for two days"

Kripa groaned pressing her temples "right now?"

"Yes Miss Sharma. He will be leaving in two hours" she replied, then held up

Kripa muttered under her breath walking towards Armaan and Ridhimaa "what's wrong?" Ridhimaa asked noticing Kripa constantly grumbling

"Dinner's over" she announced dropping on the sofa "I have babysitting duty"

Ridhimaa chuckled "stop sulking, you chose to work there"

"Yeah" she pressed her temple "let's just hope I don't face that freak again"

 

 

"Then what happened?" Abhi asked frowning at the moment of suspense. Kripa lay beside him, patting him to sleep. She was telling him small short stories, trying to put him to sleep. She smiled kissing his head "Then the fox leaped out of the bushes to get its prey?"

 

"What's a Prey?"

 

"It's the food of an animal"

 

"What does a fox eat?"

 

She kissed his cheek "foxes eat rabbits"

 

"Why does it eat rabbits?"

"Because it's their favorite food"

"But rabbits are so cute" he grimaced "Doesn't the fox the rabbit cute?"

"Oh Abhi" she caressed his hair "you ask too many questions"

"My teacher says the same" he played with his fingers "is it wrong to ask too many questions? My teacher gets angry"

"It's not wrong sweetheart. But right now it's time to sleep" she sat up "come on close your eyes and go to sleep" she ordered. She patted his head, humming a rhythm until sleep came to him. She looked down at the sleeping child and smiled sweetly.

 

Ayush had fell asleep ages ago. He had been tired from days play and fell asleep exhausted. Abhi was another story.  He had told her he missed her and then told her what he did at school that week. When she had finally coaxed him to go to bed, he had insisted on a story. The boy was adorable, so full of innocence she was scared for him. The neglect the two boys faced from their family was horrible and she was scared it would affect them negatively in the future.

 

Kissing the two boys she slipped out of the room. She strolled down the stairs picking her bag from the sofa. She didn't know if she was supposed to stay here or not but she wasn't told to so she supposed she wouldn't be staying. There uncle was home for the night anyways so it shouldn't be such a big problem. He couldn't say anything to the sleeping children.

 

"Where do you think you are going?" she heard his booming voice demand.

 

She turned to find him standing by the sofa. Taking a deep breath she prepared herself for whatever was coming "I'm going home"

 

"I think you forgot what was written in the contract. You will look after Aditya Khanna's children in his absence; and clearly he is absent right now" he scoffed

 

"I know he's absent" she retorted, her teeth gritting "but their asleep right now. I'll be back before they awake in the morning"

 

"I think you didn't hear what I said clear enough" he said stepping closer

 

"I did" she said with narrowed eyes "and I also said I'll be back before their awake. I don't see a problem with that Mr Khanna"

 

He glared daggers at silently "You're going to stay here tonight" he muttered "your rooms to the left of the children. I want you awake before them because if I hear a peep out of those kids, you won't see the end of me" he threatened then stomped up the stairs angrily.

 

She sighed pressing her temples. He could have just told her and avoided an argument with her. Oh he was so frustrating. A few moments with him had her all hyped up and ready to kill. She walked up the stairs unconsciously cursing him.

 

Stepping into the room she realized she had nothing with her. Her clothing and necessary toiletries were at home. Sighing she walked out of the room towards the door at the end of the hallway. She gathered all her courage and knocked.

 

Angad opened the door annoyed "What's the problem now?" he barked "Do I need to instruct you on everything you do while you're here"

 

"I need to go home for a few minutes. I wasn't told that I was supposed to stay the night and so I don't have any of my necessities" she said irritated "unless you want me to walk around with my clothes creased, looking like a mess"

 

He rolled his eyes in annoyance "this is the last time I'm letting you get away missy, so unless you want your job you better hurry up. You've got half an hour to be back"

 

"But half an hour's too less. I'll take me a few minutes to find a taxi first" she pointed

 

"I don't care how you do it. You have half an hour. If you are late then I'm not guaranteeing you anything" he retorted closing the door.

 

"Ughh" she groaned muttering curses under her breath. She called Ridhimaa, apologizing for the late night call. She picked her up and helped her pack a small duffle bag which would last her two days.

 

She reached Khanna house on time despite her worries of being late and was relieved. After another argument with Angad she retired to her room. She changed her clothes and dropped on the bed too tired to worry about tomorrow. Yawning she stretched her aching muscles and fell asleep contentedly on the soft mattress.

 

Her eyes blinked open with the bright sun blinding her sight. She pulled the covers on her face too tired to awake but was interrupted by a loud thump on the door. She groaned closing her eyes trying to drown out the pounding which only got louder "I'm coming" she yelled rubbing her eyes. She opened the door to find Angad Khanna staring furiously at her. His eyes fiery eyes glared daggers at her, his mouth set in a grim line, his teeth clenched. Kripa gulped preparing herself to face Angad Khanna and his so called anger.

 

Faiza

Ayush giggled watching Kripa hold her head, her fingers pressed to her temples. Who could understand more than him why her head ached "Get use to it aunty; if you want to stay here you'll have to listen to him everyday"

Kripa looked at Ayush "Your uncle is evil"

Ayush chuckled "I know. That's why we have a different babysitter every month"

"You actually notice all this stuff" she exclaimed surprised at how much the kid had gone through

He nodded sitting next to her "It happens all the time"

"You're a strong kid Ayush" she said stroking his head

He flexed his tiny muscles "I haven't got any muscles yet"

She laughed "You don't have to have muscles to be strong. Not every muscled man is strong"

"Really?"

"Really" she blinked, smiling widely. He smiled back hugging her around the neck.

 

Angad had given Kripa quite a shouting in the morning. She listened to his nagging for a good half an hour. She had overslept this morning by an hour. Of course it wasn't so wrong in her eyes. Especially considering it was his fault she was so tired last night. She had made a mad dash home because of him so it wasn't entirely her fault. She couldn't god more when he was called for a business associate of his.

 

She didn't know how long she would tolerate his behavior. After all she had some self respect. But she couldn't leave Abhi and Ayush to suffer his ignorance and unexplained anger. They were innocents and needed to be cared for properly. She didn't have the heart to leave their innocent souls in the wicked household. She wouldn't back out because of one person's behavior. She would stay for them. Leaning back into sofa she silently cursed Angad wishing for a better future.

 

"I'm bored" Ayush complained, his hand under his chin "Can't we go out"

"No" Kripa answered "You're not allowed to. Where's Abhi? Play with him"

"Abhi" he frowned "He's boring. He never enjoys playing with me"

Kripa smiled "well then play something you both enjoy"

"But there's nothing like that"

"Hmmm" she tapped her chin in thought "Do you have snakes and ladders?"

"Yes"

"Bring that and call Abhi. We'll play that"

"Abhi won't play; he'll just sit there" Ayush complained still sitting at his spot

"Trust me" Kripa said crossing her legs "He will. Now up you go. Go and get the game and Abhi"

 

Minutes later Abhi, Ayush and Kripa sat sprawled on the carpet staring at the board game "I told you he won't play" Ayush grumbled.

"It will take a while" she murmured then turned towards Abhi "Come on Abhi you can start first"

 

He looked at her baffled "I don't know what to do"

 

She sighed "Alright then let's try it this way. What do you see on the board?" she questioned

His eyes were fixed on the board "a snake and a ladder with numbers" he answered shortly

"Ok" she picked up a small red counter "what's this?" she asked

Ayush looked at her bewildered "What are you doing?"

She held her had up "Shhh" and looked at Abhi "what's in my hand Abhi?"

"A counter" he answered also confused

"Good" she put the counter at the starting point and rolled the dice "what number does it say on the dice?"

He looked towards her and then down "four"

"Ok, so now what do we do?"

"Move the counter" he answered

"Then move it" she stated. He looked at her puzzled; what was she doing? He looked down at the snakes and ladders board, picked the red counter and moved it four steps and looked back at her for confirmation "There's a ladder on number four" she pointed. He looked down and moved the counter up the ladder. She smiled "Did you like that?"

"I don't know" he looked down mystified

She sighed "Ok, let's do it another way" she held his face "close your eyes and imagine you are the counter"

"But I'm not"

"Imagine Abhi, Think" she watched him close his eyes "can you see yourself?" he nodded "now imagine you are standing in front of a wall with snakes and ladder" he squinted his eyes "what do you see?"

"A black snake" he whispered "and a tall ladder"

"Great, now go four steps aside and step on the ladder before the snake gets you" her eyes sparkled

A few moments later his eyes in excitement "I did it"

She smiled affectionately "you did" she kissed his chubby cheek "now come on, let's do the same on the board, imagine the counter is you and do what the dice tells you to" he nodded his head animatedly while Kripa laughed at his enthusiasm.

Ayush beamed jumping to select his counter for the game "you're the best Kripa aunty"

"Why, thank you" she answered, a smile gracing her lips as she selected her own counter

 

 

"How was your weekend?" Ridhimaa asked sipping her coffee. They sat in the hospital cafeteria after Kripa's long weekend at the Khanna's.

"It was good" she smiled "The kids are cute. We played all weekend. Stuff I haven't play for a while actually" sighing she took a sip of her own tea "My parents death anniversary is coming up into two weeks. I've been missing them a lot lately"

Ridhimaa covered her hand "well they wouldn't be happy to see their daughter sad and depressed. They would want to see you happy. So miss them without grieving about it" she advised

Kripa smiled at the meaningful words "Yeah, I guess. How's your dad?" she asked pushing her hair back

"He's okay. Doctor Kirti said everything's going fine. I trust her" her fingers played with strands of her hair "Dad's been worried lately. He keeps talking about me getting married. I don't think Armaan's ready. Neither am I. I can't get married knowing his critical state"

 

Kripa moved forward hugging her "he'll be fine Ridhimaa. I know you're scared for his health. But trust me, he'll recover pretty soon" after Ridhimaa calmed, they parted "where's Armaan?"

"I'm here" he said sitting beside Ridhimaa "How's my darling doing?"

"I'm fine" Ridhimaa replied

" Actually I was asking Kripa" he teased

"Armaan" she whined "be serious for once"

"I know you love me the way I am" he kissed her hand "How about dinner tonight?" Ridhimaa ignored him stirring her coffee "I asked if you want to go to dinner tonight?"

"Oh, Are you talking to me?" she asked

"Of course I am"

She smiled cheekily "I thought you would want dinner with Kripa" she teased

Kripa and Ridhimaa laughed at Armaan's sulking face "If that's what you want" he took Kripa's hand "I don't mind" he smiled goofily

"Sorry to break your heart Armaan but I'm busy" she replied chuckling

"Then tomorrow, what's say?" he raised his brow humorously

"Armaan" she moaned breaking in to fits of laughter "stop teasing"

"I'm not" he laughed and kissed Ridhimaa's cheek "I'll pick you up at eight"

 

 

"I'm fine uncle; honestly" Kripa assured

"Are you sure? You don't sound fine" Rustam said concerned

"Oh it's nothing, just a little cold; Mumbai isn't as warm as Rajasthan"

"Oh ok" he sighed "it's not like you're going to tell me anyways"

"But I'm fine, it's just a little cold" she defended "I'll talk to you later, someone's at the door" she said as she heard the doorbell ring.

"Ok, take care of yourself and phone me if you need anything"

"Yes uncle, I'll phone, bye" and she hung up and rushed to the door. She opened it to find a woman dressed in a pink salwar suit. The woman was beautiful with big brown eyes, pink cheeks and full lips on her glowing skin. Kripa smiled awkwardly and asked "Umm, can I help you?"

"Hello" she pulled her hands out eagerly

"Hi" Kripa held her hand

"Can I come in?" she asked

"Oh, yeah, come in" she moved aside a little clumsily, escorting her to the living room.

"I'm your new neighbor, Sanjeeda" she introduced

"Oh, I'm Kripa, nice to meet you Sanjeeda"

"I know it's silly of me to just come in like this but we just moved in. I don't know about the places around here yet; so can I borrow some eggs?" she asked candidly.

"Oh umm, sure" Kripa was surprised at her frankness. Kripa would take quite a few weeks before talking so frankly. Oh well she thought taking the eggs out of the fridge, not everyone was like her. She gave a small bag with four eggs in them.

"I'd love to meet you again Kripa" Sanjeeda spoke "for now I'll leave, my husband's waiting" she smiled and left out the door. Kripa looked at the door amazed; the lady came in a flash and left in a flash. She smiled to herself, she sure had wacky neighbors.

 

 

Oh great, Kripa thought annoyed. She had just planned her day out with Ridhimaa but it all went down the drain when she was called to baby sit. She loved the kids a lot but she didn't like that uncle of theirs, who seemed to be there every time. Plus the fact that they called her at the weirdest times annoyed the hell out of her.

 

But since the three weeks she had known the boys, she had seen a difference in them. They seemed a little happier than they were when she started working. She hoped she could make them happier. The boys were adorable and they deserved the best.

 

Ayush and Abhi had become quite attached with Kripa in the short time they had known her. They liked the way she pampered them but still told them off for anything wrong. Ayush and Abhi had started to spend a lot of time together. They played together; something they hardly did in the past.

Kripa reached Khanna house after cancelling her plans, her nose wrinkled in slight annoyance. When she walked in she found Aditya waiting for her in the main seating area.

Aditya glanced up on hearing footsteps and smiled pleased "I'm glad you could make it on time Miss Sharma. Sanya isn't feeling very well today so I want you to look after the children till I'm at the office. I'll be late" Aditya ordered "the kids are still at school, so you will leave to pick them up with my driver in ten minutes and come straight home from their school"

Kripa nodded silently listening for any other instructions he gave her. Sometime he found it very weird how Mr Khanna was always the one giving instructions and not Mrs Khanna. It almost seemed like she didn't exist. Her kids never mentioned her, her brother in law had the same story. The only person she saw with her was Mr Khanna. And even then, she'd hardly heard a word out of her, not even the slightest encouragement towards her children.

 

Kripa observed Sanya Khanna in the ten minutes she was there before leaving to pick up the kids. She didn't seem like she wasn't well. She seemed perfectly fine walking around mindlessly upstairs. Kripa had often felt very uncomfortable with her, almost as I Sanya didn't want her here but god knew what the real problem was.

Heaving a sigh she left to collect the children from their school. She smiled watching Abhi beam at her sight, whilst Ayush looked somewhat grumpy, looking like that grouchy uncle of his. Moving forward and she took their small hands in hers "what's wrong Ayush?" she asked concerned

"I hate my teacher"

She chuckled, it seemed no one really liked there teachers "what happened? Did he shout at you?"

"Yeah" he looked towards her "he told me that I'm a lazy boy who's proud of my money" he complained

Kripa looked towards him sympathetically. If he wasn't brought up properly he would soon end up like that and his teacher was just encouraging that attitude by labeling him. "I'll talk to him" she assured blinking her eyes "now come on, cheer up; we have a lot to do today?" she grinned when he smiled and turned to Abhi "How was your day Abhi?"

"Good" he spoke excitedly "we did painting in art today" he said showing his art folder

 

Kripa smiled affectionately "what did you paint?"

"I painted my family" he answered climbing into the car. He pulled out his painting from his folder and showed his picture "That's mom" he had drawn them as stick figures, coloring over their bodies in bright colors. Her eyes zeroed onto the figure he called his mother. He had painted in dull grey and black colors which made it stand out in a dark sort of way. "That's dad" his father was a simple straight body with his head high, perfectly displaying his arrogance, blue colors painted over his stick figured body "That's me and Ayush" he pointed towards two smaller stick men in orange and blue with smiles on their faces "that's uncle" he had painted his uncle at a distance from the family, just like his father, straight, arrogant, looking high, showing his superiority. She didn't blame him for the distance; he surely was a stranger in the family, it seemed they were only biologically related and that was about it.

"Who's that?" Kripa pointed

"Oh, that's you" he smiled pointing to the stick figure dressed in red, her hair drawn in curly scrawls "your Kripa aunty so you're my family" he stated innocently. His gesture brought tears to her eyes. Abhi was so innocent; living in that house of his, his innocence would fade away, getting lost in the worldly demands. She kissed his cheek, a soft smile adorning her face.

 

"When will you leave this house? You've already left an eternal curse on this house. How much more do you plan to do" Angad taunted, glaring at her

 

Sanya looked at him with a mixture of fright and nervousness "curse" she whispered

 

"Oh now don't give me that look. I know you're not scared. Everyone else might believe but I don't and I never will"

 

Her tear framed eyes looked at him confusion "believe "

 

"Oh, how fake can you get woman? Don't you leave a chance? You couldn't take my piece so you bought your children in. And now you want to make it worse with that loud mouth baby sitter of yours" he turned to glance sideways but caught sight of Kripa holding the kids. He glared at them "hear me out all of you. I'm not going to be influenced by any of you. Understand! You better understand" he said pointedly glaring at Kripa who glowered back at his stomping feet.

 

Sanya looked at Kripa nervously and fled up the stairs to the sanctuary of the room. Kripa stared at the empty space which was filled with voices of argument before. What was happening? She thought bewildered

 

 

Aditya looked down at his sleeping children. They were so innocent. What had he done for them, nothing. He was too bothered about his own problems to realize his children's pain, the care his children needed. He held his head watching them breathe silently in the silence of the night. He kissed Ayush's forehead and then Abhi's without realizing when the tears slipped down his cheeks.

Ayush crinkled his eyes and opened them "Dad" he mumbled half asleep and sat up "what's wrong? Why are you crying?" he asked wiping the tears

Aditya avoided his eyes "nothing, I think something got into my eye" he patted him "go to sleep, it's late" he left leaving Ayush curious. Why was his dad crying? He had never seen his dad cry. He never cried when they fought, then why now?

"Thank you so much" Ridhimaa spoke landing on the sofa "That was a real surprise"

Kripa smiled widely "Glad you liked it"

"Hey" Armaan interrupted "why are you taking all the credit?" he handed a mug to Ridhimaa and the other to Kripa "it was my idea"

Ridhimaa whacked his arm "you are so full of yourself"

Kripa giggled "Armaan, who's the one who forgot it was Ridhimaa's birthday?" Kripa reminded

Ridhimaa looked at Armaan wide eyed "you forgot my birthday again?"

"No" he defended "Kripa's lying" he scrunched his nose "why would I forget your birthday Ridz?"

Ridhimaa narrowed her eyes "don't lie to me"

"Ok" he groaned "I forgot but I was the one who organized the thing"

"Not to forget with Atul's help" Kripa reminded

Ridhimaa glared at him "you're useless"

Armaan whined "Ridz, I forgot ok! But  you should be thankful that I gave you a party"

Ridhimaa looked at him with her mouth unconsciously open "What do you mean by I should be thankful"

He blew a sigh "Ridz, your taking the wrong meaning"

"I'm not"

Kripa popped the crackers in her mouth "and if you two start fighting then I'm leaving"

"Your not" Ridhimaa intervened "stay where you are" she ordered "you promised to stay with me tonight"

"Yeah I did" she sighed "so is the fight over?" she asked comically

"Well no thanks to you" Armaan plopped on the sofa beside her "you didn't have to mention that I forgot and Atul helped me"

She giggled "I thought Ridhimaa would want to know"

"Yeah, yeah" he grabbed the cracker she picked up and pushed it into his mouth "there's something called sharing" he mumbled, his mouthful whilst Kripa glared at him.

Kripa and Ayush watched Aditya pat his wife to sleep. Many questions floated through their minds. Sanya's violent behavior had them baffled and worried. Ayush was shaken up with the incident. He had seen her screaming and shouting before but he always thought it was because of his uncle. He had never thought he could be the reason.

Kripa held Ayush's small hands in hers, feeling his body tremble next to hers. She felt sorry for the poor soul. At such a small age he had gone through so much. She had always thought herself lonely and unlucky having no family but seeing Ayush made her realize that she wasn't the only one. Just because one had a family never meant you were happy. It didn't mean you weren't lonely. Ayush had a family and he still felt the isolation in the family. Her heart grieved for the child. How could god be so pitiless? Couldn't he see what the seven year old was going through? She squeezed his hand when he looked towards her for assurance.

Aditya looked towards the two when he was sure his wife was sound asleep. He couldn't meet eyes with Ayush. His son looked at him doubtfully, his eyes complained and questioned. He stood up and led the two towards his study "Ayush, go to your room" he ordered

Ayush's big brown framed with tears "what happened to mom?" he questioned

Aditya sighed "Ayush, listen to me please"

Ayush pressed his lower lip between his teeth "dad, what's wrong with mom?" he asked courageously

"Go to your room Ayush" he spoke again raising his voice this time

"Mr Khanna" Kripa interrupted gripping the trembling child "I think he has a right to know"

Aditya looked at her helplessly. He knew it wasn't right to hide this issue from his son but it wouldn't be right to trouble Ayush. He looked at Kripa pleadingly whilst she looked on puzzled. Why was he looking at her like that? Didn't his son have the right to know about his mother? What was going on? She held Ayush's hand and decided to listen to Aditya "Ayush, go and see what Abhi's doing, I'll be with you in a few moments"

Ayush looked at Kripa disappointed. Why was she stopping him? "I want to know" he squeaked, tears rolling down his cheeks.

"Ayush" Kripa kneeled in front of him "I promise he will tell you. Just listen to me now baby" she requested wiping his cheeks.

He looked at her pleadingly "why not now?" he asked

Kripa cupped his face "Ayush, if you love me then do what I say" she kissed his cheek "you love me don't you?" he nodded "then go to your room" he looked at her and silently left. Kripa stood up and looked at Aditya dubiously "are you going to tell him?" she asked

Aditya looked down "I don't think it's the right thing to do" he started "You won't either" he looked towards her "Sanya has Dissociative identity disorder" he told her quietly. Kripa looked up stunned. Ayush and Abhi were craving for a mother who herself didn't know who she was "It happened eight years ago" his eyes flooded with tears "We went to Calcutta for vacations. After my parents died the atmosphere in the house changed. Angad was quite depressed as well. It had been three months to my marriage then. We were happy, very happy" his voice cracked as tears choked his voice "We were a happy family" he turned away "The death of my parents had Angad different in days. His attitude towards us changed all of a sudden. He became arrogant, never spoke without being rude. He became ruthless" he wiped the tears escaping his eyes "Sanya was quite upset with the change in house. We had a love marriage so I couldn't send her to her parent's house. They were angry with us, so I took her to Calcutta" he stood up and looked out of the window staring at the dark night "We were on our way to Calcutta when a woman appeared in front of our car. I turned the car in time but the woman fainted because of shock. We took her to the hospital; after all it was my fault. I should have watched where I was driving" he looked towards Kripa "the woman had escaped from the mental asylum. Her husband and children died in an accident a few months before leaving her mentally unstable. Sanya was a very emotional person. She felt sorry for the lady. We stayed in Calcutta for two and a half months and Sanya didn't miss a day to visit here. I went with her a few times but I spent most of the time in the hotel room" he tilted his head watching the moon and stars "I regret that time. I never knew Sanya would become so attached to that woman" his eyes sparkled with emotion "four months after we returned we learned of her death. I didn't know Sanya still kept contact with her. Sanya would talk to her everyday with permission from the authorities. When Sanya heard of her death she suddenly became silent" he gulped trying to suppress his tears "She would just sit to a corner in the room and think. I thought she would get over it in a few weeks but she didn't. Instead it seemed she was someone else at times" he sighed as he pressed his fingers to his eyes "Then she was pregnant. I was happy. I thought maybe her pregnancy would make her feel better but nothing happened. Instead she became worse" he pushed his thick wavy hair back "I talked to our family doctor, she suggested taking her to a psychiatrist. I didn't want to take her, I didn't want to think of her needing a psychiatrist so I avoided it for a month but she was becoming violent. I had to be around her all the time. Our baby was in her womb and her violence made me worry. After a month I finally made my mind up and visited a psychiatrist. He observed her for a few weeks and asked me a few questions. He concluded she had Dissociative identity disorder" he rubbed his forehead "She's much better than before, she takes medication but the improvement is gradual. I thought Ayush's birth would help her but it didn't. Abhi gave me hope as well but everything stayed the same way. I didn't realize when I started to ignore my children. I never thought they needed me. I was too absorbed into my own tensions. On one side Sanya's illness and on the other was Angad's ignorance"

Kripa watched Aditya crumble into pieces while he tried to hide it by wiping his cheeks. She felt sorry for him. All these weeks she thought he was a careless father when he himself was left alone to handle all the burden. She wiped her tearful eyes and spoke "I still think you should tell him" he looked her amazed. He had just told her his life's biggest tension and she expected him to tell Ayush. She walked forward and held the family photo "tell him his mothers ill. You don't need to tell him which illness" she pointed towards the photo "if you want to be like this then you have to give Ayush attention. He's growing and everyone knows how much a boy need's their father. And you have to remember your doing the role of his mother and father. I understand that Mrs Khanna is ill and she needs your attention but you need to give your children attention" she put the photo on the desk "And I think you should get her medication changed if the improvement is gradual. It shouldn't take as long as eight years"

He looked down "I got her medication changed five times but the improvement stays on the same level. It makes no difference" he informed "The psychiatrist suggested psychotherapy but she didn't agree. She wouldn't let me take her. He's a very busy person himself to come home and treat her. He suggested taking her out, involving her in the outside world but she stays silent outside as well. When her behavior becomes a little aggressive I take her home. I don't want anyone to know. I don't want anyone calling her mad" tears filled his eyes threatening to fall again.

Kripa bit down on her lip "if you don't mind shall I talk to my friend about it. She's a doctor" she suggested hesitantly "she knows a few psychiatrists"

He looked at her unsure "I don't know. I don't want to take a risk"

"I promise she won't tell anyone. The children need their mother as well" she replied "if you're not happy after meeting the psychiatrist then you can refuse"

"I" he looked away "let me think about it"

Kripa smiled "she will be fine" she reassured patting his shoulder and left the room leaving Aditya feeling much lighter. He could never share his pain with anyone since his parent's death. Sanya was long lost and his brother didn't even like talking to him. Telling Kripa had made him feel a little better .He looked towards the door, hope rising in his heart once again.

 

 

"That was so sweet" Kripa exclaimed listening to Sanjeeda and Amir's first meeting.

"I know" Sanjeeda replied excited "and when he proposed to me, he looked so cute, just like Shahid Kapoor" she sighed dreamily "I had always wished Amir proposed to me in a train after I watched jab we met. Oh my god, he's such a good actor. He' handsome, so cute and an absolute—"

Here we go again Kripa thought. It didn't take Sanjeeda long to drift off into her Bollywod kingdom; she could talk about it all day long. Kripa looked down towards the carpeted floor where Hayaa sat pulling on her dolls head. She was just like her mother; instead her obsession was with breaking dolls. She was so cute, with a hollow in her chin. Her eyes were big like her mothers with the color of her father. She was a chubby baby but cute who had only just started crawling. Kripa bent down pinching her cheeks as the baby girl stared at her. Kripa smiled and kissed her forehead. She pulled the doll half way up handling it to her. Smiling she took the doll. Her nose felt itchy and she sneezed. Hayaa giggled, Kripa smiled and sneezed again. She giggled louder, both of them getting involved in a game of their own. While Sanjeeda was still busy blabbering on about Shahid Kapoor.

 

 

"Atul just shut up ok" Armaan exclaimed

"Why?" he asked confused "all I said was that you were killing a life" he said looking down at his hands

Armaan rolled his eyes "it's an ant" he stated "so many are killed without anyone realizing"

"Exactly" Atul let the ant crawl out of his hands "the poor creature is killed and people don't even care"

"Oh god" Armaan hit his forehead "your impossible" his eyes lightened with mischief on the sight of Ridhimaa "Hey Ridz"

"Hey" she sat next to him looking ever so tired "Did Kripa come?" she asked

"Nope" Armaan answered "was she meant to?"

"Armaan, stop being like Atul" she said pushing his wandering hands away

"What do you mean by that?" Atul protested

"Nothing Atul. Armaan was just being stupid"

"You mean to say Atul's stupid?" Armaan asked with a grin while Atul looked at her curtly

"I didn't say that" she retorted glaring at Armaan

"Then why did you say that I was being like Atul" he asked blinking his eyes enquiringly

She sighed "stop it Armaan"

"What?" he looked here and there "what am I doing?"

"Ughh" her grunting was left incomplete when her pager went off "I've got to go" she stood up and left the canteen

Minute's later Kripa walked into the canteen panting "hey" Armaan greeted "you just missed Ridhimaa"

Kripa groaned inwardly "how long will she be?"

"I don't know. Maybe an hour or so"

Kripa sighed and stood up "tell her I'll see her tomorrow. I have to go" she turned to leave

"How rude?" she heard Armaan. She turned back "I have no importance for you" he complained

Kripa smiled "I'd love to stay but I have to run, I have to go baby-sit"

He looked away with a comical frown "It's alright. I know you don't like me"

"Armaan" Kripa whined "It's important"

"Why are you telling me?"

Kripa blew out a sigh "bye Atul" she turned around to walk out

"Not only rude but bad manners as well" Armaan spoke loudly

Kripa turned around, hands on hips and asked "what do you want?"

He scratched his chin "some help"

"What?" Kripa looked at him confused

He grinned "I want to propose to Ridhimaa. I need help" he informed

Kripa's smile grew wider "really?" she bent and embraced him "congratulations. When are you proposing?"

"I wouldn't mind right now but it won't be special"

Kripa smirked "I'll help you but I seriously have to rush right now"

"Ok, ok, I'll let you off this time. I'll see you tomorrow then"

Kripa scrunched her nose "actually no. I'm on duty for the next two days"

"Oh then after two days" he suggested

"Ridhimaa's coming down then and I'm sure you wouldn't want to discuss plans in front of her now would you?"

He rolled his eyes "give me a call when you're free"

Kripa chuckled "see you in four days" and she left

 

 

Ayush looked at his father expectantly. It had been two days since the incident. His father hadn't spoken a word to him since and now he sat next to Ayush on his bed. He was going to tell Ayush about his mother. Ayush's eyes pleaded with him to tell him the truth. He gulped and started "Your mother is ill Ayush" Ayush looked at his father puzzled "she was ill before you were born"

"Give her some medicine" Abhi said suggesting while he played with the colors on the paper "My teacher say's that you feel better when you have medicine" he said innocently

Aditya smiled softly "She has an illness which isn't cured with medicine" he replied taking Abhi onto his lap

"What does cured mean?" he asked

"Cured means when an ill person becomes better"

"Is Angad uncle ill?" he asked

"No" Aditya looked down at him "why do you ask?"

"Kripa aunty was saying that Angad uncle is a bad man and needs to be cured"

Aditya bit his lips trying to suppress his smile "he's not ill" he repeated "he's just forgotten that other people live around him"

"That's true" Ayush joined "how can mom be cured?" He asked going back to the previous conversation

"Just have hope son" Aditya pulled him into his arms "she'll be fine very soon"

Kripa watched the father and son's embracing each other from the door. She was so glad Aditya took her advice. She walked inside a little embarrassed for her comments about Angad after all he was Aditya's brother. His brother would come first "good afternoon" she greeted

"Good afternoon" Aditya greeted. He looked much more cheerful instead of his dull, gloomy look. Maybe sharing his pain with someone had worked for him.

She smiled and pulled Abhi into her arms seeing Aditya struggle with both children "How is Mrs Khanna?" she asked

"She's fine" he answered and stood up "I want you to talk to your friend"

Kripa's smiled widely "of course. I'm seeing her in two days. I'll talk to her then" she put Abhi to his feet "Can I ask you a question?" she asked hesitantly

"Go ahead"

"Does Angad, sorry, Mr Khanna know about this?"

"You can call him Angad in front of me" he said "he knows but he doesn't really care" Aditya looked down "he thinks it's all fake"

 

 

"Can't you hear me?" Angad screamed for the third time "I said shut up. I don't want to hear a word from any one of you"

"Ok" Kripa answered. As soon as he turned away she pulled her tongue out at him.

He turned back, her tongue slid back automatically "I'm not going to tolerate you pulling faces behind my back" he growled "think before you do it next time"

Kripa looked behind him noticing the thin mirrors lined up "Do you want me to do it to your face then?" she asked cheekily. She felt a little high and chirpy today. Maybe at the wrong place, wrong time and with the wrong person but she didn't care. She rarely felt like this and she didn't want to waste it. Ayush giggled, holding his mouth tight. He didn't want to laugh in front of his uncle; he was already a pain in the neck.

Angad looked at Kripa furiously "Miss Sharma, I think you're forgetting who you're talking to"? He stated glowering

"I know who I'm talking to" she answered glancing towards Abhi "it's you"

He gritted his teeth "don't try to be clever with me" he warned

Kripa scrunched her nose tapping her cheek "what's so clever about knowing who you're talking to?"

His jaw tightened, his face turning red. he scowled "I'm the boss here so don't even think about talking me back"

"I think you forgot our meeting Mr Khanna" she reminded embarrassing him.

He turned away "I didn't get a chance to tell you who I am because Mr Khanna arrived. You'll know very soon who I am" he warned before escaping to his room. Meanwhile Kripa and Ayush sniggered. Abhi simply watched them confused, they laughed for every other thing.

 

 

Ridhimaa sighed "it's a big problem they have. It's a horrible illness. I've met people who have been through it and it's not pleasant"

"Yeah" Kripa mumbled drawing circles on the sofa "I felt bad for him. I thought he didn't care about his children but he was depressed himself. I feel bad for accusing him"

Ridhimaa placed her hand on top of Kripa's "doesn't worry, everything will be fine. I know a psychiatrist who can help them"

"Who is it?" Kripa asked looking up earnestly

"Anjali, we graduated together. She specialized into a psychiatrist. I still remember how Atul use to run behind her. Those days were just something else"

Kripa smiled "I hope she can make a difference in that house.  Ayush and Abhi are pining for their mother" Kripa leaned back and sighed "they've been through enough"